System

The system addresses the inefficiencies in managing surplus food by enabling providers to input and manage surplus food information, allowing users to request and receive it efficiently, thereby reducing waste and supporting society.

JP2026038232APending Publication Date: 2026-03-06SOFTBANK GROUP CORP
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-08-22
Publication Date
2026-03-06

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing systems lack an efficient mechanism to manage surplus food from providers and deliver it to those in need, leading to food waste and social inequality.

Method used

A system that allows food providers to input detailed surplus food information into a database, enabling general users to search and request this food, with inventory management and delivery coordination to ensure efficient transfer.

Benefits of technology

This system effectively reduces food waste and provides social support by facilitating the smooth delivery of surplus food to those who need it.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

A system is provided.SOLUTION: This system includes a means for inputting detailed information of surplus food by a food provider, a means for storing inventory information of the surplus food in a database, a means for retrieving the surplus food by a general user and transmitting a request therefor, a means for updating the inventory of the food and storing request information, and a means for storing delivery information and pickup point information and notifying the user of them.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The technology of the present disclosure relates to a system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a persona chatbot control method performed by at least one processor, the method including the steps of receiving a user utterance, adding the user utterance to a prompt including an instruction sentence related to a description of the chatbot character, encoding the prompt, and inputting the encoded prompt into a language model to generate a chatbot utterance in response to the user utterance. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-180282 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In recent years, the issue of food waste has received societal attention, with reducing food waste being included as one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Food providers often generate surplus food that is then discarded, causing environmental problems and economic waste. At the same time, there are people facing hunger and economic hardship, and social support for these people is needed. However, the current system faces the challenge of not having a sufficient mechanism in place to effectively manage surplus food and deliver it to those in need. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides the following means: a system including a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for storing surplus food inventory information in a database, a means for general users to search for surplus food and submit requests, a means for updating food inventory and storing request information, and a means for storing delivery information and pickup point information and notifying users. This system allows food providers to effectively manage surplus food and share that information with general users. Furthermore, general users can make requests and be notified of delivery information, etc., so that surplus food can be delivered to people in need. This makes it possible to simultaneously reduce food waste and provide social support.

[0006] "Food provider" means an entity that manufactures, sells, or serves food.

[0007] "Surplus food" refers to food that remains after being unable to be sold or provided by food service providers.

[0008] "Detailed information" refers to specific information such as the name of the food, expiration date, quantity, and category.

[0009] "Database" refers to a system used to structure, store, search, and manipulate information.

[0010] "General user" refers to an individual who uses the system and is not affiliated with a specific food provider.

[0011] "Search" refers to the act of finding information stored in a database based on specific criteria.

[0012] "Request" refers to the act of requesting a particular service or product.

[0013] "Inventory" refers to the total amount of goods or materials held at a particular time.

[0014] "Shipping Information" means information necessary to transport an item from one location to another.

[0015] "Pick-up Point" means a designated location for a User to collect an Item.

[0016] "Notification" refers to the act of informing a user of specific information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a smart device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and smart glasses according to a second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a headset-type terminal according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a robot according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] 1 shows an emotion map onto which multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 10] 1 shows an emotion map onto which multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 11] FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram showing a processing flow of the data processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system in Application Example 1. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system according to the second embodiment when an emotion engine is combined. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system in Application Example 2 when an emotion engine is combined. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] An example of an embodiment of a system according to the technology of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0019] First, the terms used in the following description will be explained.

[0020] In the following embodiments, a coded processor (hereinafter simply referred to as a "processor") may be a single arithmetic device or a combination of multiple arithmetic devices. Furthermore, a processor may be a single type of arithmetic device or a combination of multiple types of arithmetic devices. Examples of arithmetic devices include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a GPGPU (General-Purpose computing on Graphics Processing Units), and an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit).

[0021] In the following embodiments, a coded RAM (Random Access Memory) is a memory in which information is temporarily stored and is used as a working memory by a processor.

[0022] In the following embodiments, the coded storage is one or more non-volatile storage devices that store various programs, various parameters, etc. Examples of non-volatile storage devices include flash memory (SSD (Solid State Drive)), magnetic disks (e.g., hard disks), and magnetic tapes.

[0023] In the following embodiments, a communication I / F (Interface) with a symbol is an interface including a communication processor, an antenna, etc. The communication I / F controls communication between multiple computers. Examples of communication standards applied to the communication I / F include wireless communication standards including 5G (5th Generation Mobile Communication System), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc.

[0024] In the following embodiments, "A and / or B" is synonymous with "at least one of A and B." In other words, "A and / or B" means that it may be only A, only B, or a combination of A and B. Furthermore, in this specification, the same concept as "A and / or B" is also applied when three or more things are expressed connected by "and / or."

[0025] [First embodiment]

[0026] FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0027] 1, a data processing system 10 includes a data processing device 12 and a smart device 14. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[0028] The data processing device 12 includes a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication I / F 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The computer 22 includes a processor 28, a RAM 30, and a storage 32. The processor 28, the RAM 30, and the storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication I / F 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication I / F 26 is connected to a network 54. Examples of the network 54 include a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0029] The smart device 14 includes a computer 36, a reception device 38, an output device 40, a camera 42, and a communication I / F 44. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, a RAM 48, and a storage 50. The processor 46, the RAM 48, and the storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The reception device 38, the output device 40, and the camera 42 are also connected to the bus 52.

[0030] The reception device 38 includes a touch panel 38A, a microphone 38B, and the like, and receives user input. The touch panel 38A detects contact with an indicator (for example, a pen or a finger) to receive user input by the touch of the indicator. The microphone 38B detects the user's voice to receive user input by voice. The control unit 46A transmits data indicating the user input received by the touch panel 38A and the microphone 38B to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the data indicating the user input.

[0031] The output device 40 includes a display 40A and a speaker 40B, and presents data to the user 20 by outputting the data in a form of expression that the user 20 can perceive (for example, audio and / or text). The display 40A displays visible information such as text and images in accordance with instructions from the processor 46. The speaker 40B outputs audio in accordance with instructions from the processor 46. The camera 42 is a compact digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor.

[0032] The communication I / F 44 is connected to a network 54. The communication I / Fs 44 and 26 control the exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 via the network 54.

[0033] FIG. 2 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart device 14.

[0034] 2, in the data processing device 12, a specific process is performed by the processor 28. A specific processing program 56 is stored in the storage 32. The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific process is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.

[0035] The storage 32 stores a data generation model 58 and an emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.

[0036] In the smart device 14, the processor 46 performs the reception output process. The storage 50 stores a reception output program 60. The reception output program 60 is used in conjunction with the specific processing program 56 by the data processing system 10. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output process is realized by the processor 46 operating as the control unit 46A in accordance with the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.

[0037] Next, a description will be given of the specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0038] This invention is a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and store it in a database, allowing general users to search that information and request the food they need. This system is designed to efficiently transfer food between food providers and general users, achieving both food waste reduction and social support.

[0039] System Program

[0040] Food registration for food providers

[0041] Users (food providers) log into the system and enter detailed information about their surplus food, including the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category. The server receives this information and stores it in a database. At this stage, food providers can review and modify the information they entered.

[0042] Matching surplus food demand

[0043] A terminal (general user) accesses the system and displays a list of surplus food currently being offered. The user (general user) selects the food item they need from the list, enters the requested quantity, and submits it. The server that receives this request checks the inventory of the requested food item, updates the inventory if the required quantity is available, and saves the request information in a database.

[0044] Coordinating delivery and receiving

[0045] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the information of the delivery company and pickup point in a database and notifies the user. This notification allows the user (general user) to receive the food at the specified pickup point.

[0046] Specific examples

[0047] Scenario 1: Donating surplus bread

[0048] 1. A user (baker) logs into the system and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of 2 days. The server stores this information in the database.

[0049] 2. The terminal (general user) searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and sends a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[0050] 3. The user (bakery) checks the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user (general user).

[0051] 4. The user (general user) receives the bread at the designated pickup point.

[0052] In this way, the present invention enables the effective management and transfer of surplus food between food providers and general users, thereby simultaneously achieving a reduction in food waste and social support.

[0053] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0054] Processing flow

[0055] Food Registration Steps

[0056] Step 1:

[0057] The user (food provider) logs in to the system. The user enters their user ID and password on the login screen and presses the login button.

[0058] Step 2:

[0059] The server authenticates the user by checking the entered user ID and password against the authentication information in the database. If authentication is successful, the user proceeds to the food registration screen.

[0060] Step 3:

[0061] The user (food provider) enters detailed information about the surplus food, such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category, and then presses the register button.

[0062] Step 4:

[0063] The server receives the entered surplus food information and stores it in a database, where the format and consistency of the information is checked.

[0064] Steps for matching surplus food with demand

[0065] Step 1:

[0066] The terminal (general user) accesses the system and opens the food search screen. The user enters search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.) and presses the search button.

[0067] Step 2:

[0068] The server searches the database and displays a list of surplus food items that match the criteria on the terminal, from which the user can select the food items they need.

[0069] Step 3:

[0070] The user (general user) enters the requested amount and presses the request button. The request details include the request ID, user ID, food ID, requested amount, etc.

[0071] Step 4:

[0072] The server receives the request and checks the inventory information in its database to ensure that the requested food item is in sufficient stock.

[0073] Step 5:

[0074] The server updates the inventory and saves the request information in the database. The inventory is reduced by the requested amount and the request information is registered as a new record.

[0075] Steps for coordinating delivery and receiving

[0076] Step 1:

[0077] The user (food provider) opens the request list screen and checks the detailed information of each request, including the quantity of food requested, user information, and delivery address.

[0078] Step 2:

[0079] The user (food provider) arranges delivery. Specifically, they contact the delivery company and coordinate the delivery date and destination.

[0080] Step 3:

[0081] The server stores delivery information and pick-up point details in a database, including the name of the delivery company, expected delivery date and time, and the address of the pick-up point.

[0082] Step 4:

[0083] The server notifies the user (general user) by email or app notification, and includes the request ID, delivery information, and pickup point details.

[0084] Step 5:

[0085] The user (general user) receives the food at the designated pickup point. After receiving the food, the user presses the confirmation button to report the receipt to the server.

[0086] By implementing the above steps, food providers can efficiently manage surplus food and provide necessary food to general users. By using this system, it is possible to simultaneously reduce food waste and provide social support.

[0087] Example 1

[0088] Next, a description will be given of Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0089] There is a need for a system that can effectively transfer surplus food between food providers and general users, reducing food waste and providing social support. However, existing systems have had problems with inefficient food inventory management, request processing, and delivery and pickup coordination. Furthermore, there is no system that consistently handles these processes, making it difficult to improve the user experience.

[0090] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the first embodiment is realized by the following means.

[0091] In this invention, the server includes a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for storing food inventory information in a database, and a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests. This allows food providers to efficiently input detailed information about surplus food, and general users to easily request the food they need. Furthermore, consistent updates to inventory management and notifications of delivery information enable an efficient food delivery process, reducing food waste and supporting society.

[0092] "Food provider" refers to a business or organization that provides surplus food.

[0093] "Surplus food" refers to food provided by donors that is nearing its expiration date or best-before date, or that is in excess stock.

[0094] "General users" refer to consumers and individuals who use the system to search for surplus food and request the food they need.

[0095] "Database" refers to an information storage system for centrally managing food inventory information, request information, delivery information, etc.

[0096] "Inventory information" refers to detailed data stored in a database, such as the type, quantity, and expiration date of the food offered.

[0097] "Request" refers to a request sent by a general user to a provider through the system, specifying the quantity of food required.

[0098] "Delivery Information" means the details of how the provided food will be delivered to the designated pick-up point.

[0099] "Pickup Point" means a location designated for a Consumer to actually pick up the requested Food.

[0100] "Notifications" refers to messages the system sends to users informing them of food requests, delivery status, pickup location information, etc.

[0101] "Authentication" refers to the verification methods, such as user ID and password, used when food providers log in to the system.

[0102] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0103] This invention is a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and store it in a database, allowing general users to search that information and request the food they need. This system is designed to efficiently transfer food between food providers and general users, achieving both food waste reduction and social support.

[0104] The system is implemented using the following hardware and software:

[0105] Hardware and Software Examples

[0106] Server: A central processing computer that uses web server software such as Apache Tomcat.

[0107] Database: We use relational database management systems such as MySQL (registered trademark) to centrally manage food inventory information, request information, delivery information, etc.

[0108] Client terminal: A device used by food providers and general users to access the system, using a web browser (e.g., GOOGLE CHROME (registered trademark), Mozilla Firefox).

[0109] System Operation

[0110] 1. Food provider login and food information registration

[0111] The user (food provider) accesses the system from a web browser on a client terminal and logs in using authentication methods (user ID, password). The server verifies the authentication information, and if authentication is successful, displays a dashboard to the user. The food provider enters detailed information about the surplus food (food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.) into the "food registration form" and clicks the submit button. The server stores this information in a database.

[0112] 2. Display of surplus food list and requests from the public

[0113] The terminal (general user) accesses the system using a web browser and displays a list of surplus food. The server retrieves current surplus food information from the database and sends it to the client terminal. The general user selects the food they need from the list, enters the requested quantity, and clicks the send button. The server checks the inventory based on the received request information.

[0114] 3. Server processes request and updates inventory

[0115] The server checks the inventory of the requested food, and if the required quantity is available, updates the inventory quantity and saves the request information in the database. After the request is successfully processed, the server sends a notification to the general user that the processing is complete.

[0116] 4. Delivery and Pickup Coordination

[0117] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the information of the delivery company and pick-up location in a database and notifies the general user. The general user checks the notification and picks up the food at the specified pick-up location.

[0118] Specific examples

[0119] For example, consider a scenario in which a food provider from a bakery logs in and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a two-day expiration date. The server saves this information in a database. A general user then searches for "surplus bread" in the system, selects 10 loaves from the list, and submits a request. The server checks the inventory, subtracts 10 loaves from the inventory, and saves the request information in the database. The food provider prepares delivery based on the request information, and the server notifies the general user of the delivery information. The general user then picks up the 10 loaves at the notified pickup point.

[0120] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0121] Please provide detailed steps and sample code for the system for food providers and general users. In this system, food providers enter details about surplus food, general users search and request that information, and the food provider receives the request and coordinates delivery and pickup. Please explain the specific process for each step, including sample code.

[0122] In this way, the present invention achieves both food waste reduction and social support by enabling efficient interaction between food providers and general users and smooth transfer of surplus food.

[0123] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0124] Step 1: Food Provider Login and Authentication

[0125] The user (food provider) accesses the system from the web browser on the client terminal, enters the user ID and password, and clicks the login button.

[0126] The server receives the authentication information (user ID and password) sent by the user and compares it with the registered information in the database. If authentication is successful, the dashboard screen is displayed to the user.

[0127] Input: User ID and password

[0128] Data calculation: Retrieve user information from the database and compare it with the entered authentication information

[0129] Output: If authentication is successful, the dashboard screen is output. If authentication fails, an error message is output.

[0130] Step 2: Register food information

[0131] The user (food provider) enters detailed information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category into the "Food Registration Form" on the dashboard and clicks the submit button.

[0132] The server receives the entered food information and saves it in the database. If the save is successful, it outputs a "Registration Complete" message to the user.

[0133] Input: Food details such as food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.

[0134] Data calculation: Entered food information is saved in a database

[0135] Output: Outputs a registration completion message

[0136] Step 3: Display the surplus food list

[0137] The terminal (general user) accesses the system using a web browser and opens a screen displaying a list of surplus food.

[0138] The server retrieves information on current surplus food from the database and sends it to the terminal to display the list.

[0139] Input: None (screen access by general users only)

[0140] Data calculation: Obtaining surplus food information from the database

[0141] Output: Display the surplus food list on the user's device

[0142] Step 4: Request surplus food

[0143] The user (general user) selects the food item they need from the displayed list of surplus food items, enters the requested quantity, and clicks the send button.

[0144] The server checks the stock based on the received request information, and if there is sufficient stock, it saves the request information in the database and outputs a request processing completion message to the user.

[0145] Input: Type and quantity of food you would like to request

[0146] Data calculation: Retrieve inventory information from the database, check and update inventory, and save request information.

[0147] Output: A message is displayed to the user indicating that the request has been processed.

[0148] Step 5: Prepare and notify delivery

[0149] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. They input information about the delivery company and the pick-up location into the system.

[0150] The server stores the entered delivery information and pick-up location information in a database and notifies the general user.

[0151] Input: Delivery company and pickup location information

[0152] Data calculation: Delivery information and pick-up location information are stored in a database

[0153] Output: Send notification message to general users

[0154] Step 6: Pick up your food

[0155] The user (general user) receives a notification from the server and visits the designated pick-up location to pick up the food.

[0156] Input: Notified pick-up location information

[0157] Data calculation: None (user receiving action)

[0158] Output: None (user receives food directly)

[0159] These steps ensure consistent processing throughout the system, enabling smooth delivery of food between food providers and general users.

[0160] (Application example 1)

[0161] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0162] The present invention aims to reduce food waste and realize social support by providing a system that can efficiently deliver surplus food that food providers would otherwise have to discard to users who need it. Another challenge is to create a system that allows users to easily obtain surplus food, in line with today's busy lifestyles.

[0163] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 1 is realized by the following means.

[0164] In this invention, the server includes a means for a food provider to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for saving surplus food inventory information in a database, a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests for it, a means for updating food inventory and saving the request information, a means for saving delivery information and pickup point information and notifying the user, a means for users to input the quantity of food requested, and a means for efficiently receiving food in cooperation with a food delivery service. This enables food providers to effectively manage surplus food and quickly deliver it to users who need it while reducing food waste.

[0165] "Food provider" refers to a company or individual that provides surplus food and is responsible for entering detailed information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category into the system.

[0166] "Surplus food" is food that is not being sold due to an approaching expiration date or low demand, and is subject to registration by food providers in the system.

[0167] "Inventory information" is data stored in a database that includes detailed information such as the type, quantity, and expiration date of surplus food.

[0168] "General users" refer to consumers who access the system to search for surplus food and submit requests as needed.

[0169] "Search means" refers to the function or interface that allows general users to search within the system for detailed information about surplus food.

[0170] "Request means" refers to the function that enables general users to request the quantity and type of surplus food they need from the system.

[0171] "Delivery Information" refers to data that includes details such as delivery method, delivery company, and pickup point for the requested surplus food.

[0172] "Pick-up Point" means a designated location for the public to pick up their requested surplus food items.

[0173] "User notification means" refers to a function within the system for informing users of delivery information and pickup point information.

[0174] "Quantity input means" refers to a function that allows a user to input the quantity of food that they wish to request into the system.

[0175] Collaboration with "food delivery services" refers to the collaboration function that enables the system to share information with food delivery companies and realize efficient delivery and collection of food.

[0176] The present invention provides a system for efficiently transferring surplus food from food providers to general users. This system implements a series of processes: food providers input and save detailed information about surplus food, general users search that information, request the food they need, and coordinate the transfer.

[0177] System Configuration

[0178] The system includes the following major components:

[0179] 1. Food provider terminal

[0180] This terminal provides a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food (food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.) via a web browser or smartphone app.

[0181] Software used: React Native (for smartphone apps), web browser (for PCs)

[0182] 2. Database Server

[0183] The server stores the information about surplus food sent by food providers in a database.

[0184] Software used: PostgreSQL (database management system)

[0185] 3. Backend Server

[0186] The server provides the functionality to search for and accept requests for surplus food and update inventory information.

[0187] Software used: Node.js and Express.js (backend framework)

[0188] 4. General User Devices

[0189] The terminal allows users to search the list of surplus food items and request the food they need via a web browser or smartphone app, and also allows them to input and submit the requested food quantity.

[0190] Software used: React Native (for smartphone apps), web browser (for PCs)

[0191] 5. Notification System

[0192] Provide means to notify users of delivery information and pickup point information, including in-app notifications, emails, SMS, etc.

[0193] Software used: Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) or similar notification service

[0194] 6. Delivery service collaboration

[0195] Work with food delivery services to efficiently deliver requested surplus food to designated pickup points.

[0196] Delivery method: API integration, integration with third-party delivery services

[0197] Example of operation

[0198] 1. Food Provider Operations

[0199] Food suppliers log in to the system from their terminals and enter detailed information about their surplus food. The information entered is then stored in the database server.

[0200] 2. General User Operations

[0201] A general user accesses the system from a terminal, searches the list of surplus food, selects the food they need from the list, specifies the quantity, and submits a request.

[0202] 3. Notification and Receipt

[0203] The server checks the inventory based on the request, and if the inventory is available, updates the request information. The delivery information and pickup point information are then notified to the general user. The general user can then pick up the food at the specified pickup point.

[0204] Examples of prompt statements

[0205] Prompt: "Build an app that displays a list of surplus food items registered by food providers and allows users to request the food they want. The food registration should include information such as food name, expiration date, quantity, and category, and it should also handle inventory management and request processing."

[0206] This will enable food providers to effectively manage surplus food, reduce food waste, and provide food to the general public quickly and efficiently.

[0207] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0208] Step 1:

[0209] A food supplier logs into the system from a terminal. The terminal receives user authentication information (user name, password) as input and sends it to the server. The server compares the authentication information in the database and outputs the authentication result (login success or failure).

[0210] Step 2:

[0211] Food providers who have been successfully authenticated enter detailed information about the surplus food (food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.) into a terminal. The entered information is converted into a data format on the terminal and sent to the server. The server stores this information in a database.

[0212] Step 3:

[0213] A general user accesses the system from a terminal and displays a list of surplus food. The terminal sends a request for the food list to the server. The server retrieves the list of surplus food from the database and sends it to the terminal. The terminal displays the retrieved information to the user.

[0214] Step 4:

[0215] A user selects the food item they need from the list, specifies the requested quantity, and sends it from their terminal. The terminal then sends this request information to the server. The server updates the inventory information in the database and saves the request information.

[0216] Step 5:

[0217] The server generates delivery information and pickup point information based on the request and notifies the user. The server obtains the delivery information in cooperation with the delivery service and sends a notification to the user's terminal. The terminal displays the notification information to the user.

[0218] Step 6:

[0219] A general user picks up food at a designated pickup point. The user confirms the completion of the pickup on the terminal and sends it to the server. The server saves the pickup information in a database and completes the process.

[0220] This will enable food providers to manage surplus food and enable general users to quickly obtain the food they need.

[0221] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotion may be combined. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may estimate the user's emotion using the emotion identification model 59 and perform identification processing using the user's emotion.

[0222] This invention combines a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and allows general users to search and request that information with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. This system can make personalized food suggestions based on the user's emotions and adjust the priority of requests. The aim of this combination is to reduce food waste and maximize the effectiveness of social support.

[0223] Work content and system processing

[0224] Food registration for food providers

[0225] Users (food providers) log in to the system and enter detailed information about their surplus food, including the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category. The server receives this information and stores it in a database. This process ensures that the data on the surplus food provided is accurately registered in the system.

[0226] Matching surplus food demand

[0227] The terminal (general user) logs in to the system and opens the food search screen. The user enters search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.) and presses the search button. The server searches the database and displays a list of surplus foods that match the criteria on the terminal. The user selects the desired food from the list. For the selected food, the user enters the requested quantity and presses the request button. The server receives the request and checks the inventory. If there is sufficient inventory, it updates the inventory and saves the request information.

[0228] Coordinating delivery and receiving

[0229] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the information of the delivery company and pickup point in a database and notifies the user. This notification allows the user (general user) to receive the food at the specified pickup point.

[0230] Additional features of the Emotion Engine

[0231] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and makes personalized food recommendations based on those emotions. For example, if a user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have the effect of reducing stress. The emotion engine can also analyze the user's emotion data and adjust the priority of requests based on the results. For example, a request from a user who is in a very difficult situation can be given a higher priority.

[0232] Specific examples

[0233] Scenario 1: Donating surplus bread and using the emotion engine

[0234] 1. A user (baker) logs into the system and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of 2 days. The server stores this information in the database.

[0235] 2. The terminal (general user) searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and sends a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[0236] 3. The user (bakery) checks the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user (general user).

[0237] 4. The user (general user) receives the bread at the designated pickup point.

[0238] 5. The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. If the analysis shows that the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect to the user.

[0239] The present invention aims to reduce food waste and provide social support at a high level by streamlining the management and provision of surplus food by food providers and enabling personalized suggestions based on user emotions.

[0240] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0241] Processing flow

[0242] Food Registration Steps

[0243] Step 1:

[0244] The user (food provider) logs in to the system. The user enters their user ID and password on the login screen and presses the login button.

[0245] Step 2:

[0246] The server authenticates the user by checking the entered user ID and password against the authentication information in the database. If authentication is successful, the user proceeds to the food registration screen.

[0247] Step 3:

[0248] The user (food provider) enters detailed information about the surplus food, such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category, and then presses the register button.

[0249] Step 4:

[0250] The server receives the entered surplus food information and stores it in a database, where the format and consistency of the information is checked.

[0251] Steps for matching surplus food with demand

[0252] Step 1:

[0253] The terminal (general user) accesses the system and opens the food search screen. The user enters search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.) and presses the search button.

[0254] Step 2:

[0255] The server searches the database and displays a list of surplus food items that match the criteria on the terminal, from which the user can select the food items they need.

[0256] Step 3:

[0257] The user (general user) enters the requested amount and presses the request button. The request details include the request ID, user ID, food ID, requested amount, etc.

[0258] Step 4:

[0259] The server receives the request and checks the inventory information in its database to ensure that the requested food item is in sufficient stock.

[0260] Step 5:

[0261] The server updates the inventory and saves the request information in the database. The inventory is reduced by the requested amount and the request information is registered as a new record.

[0262] Steps for coordinating delivery and receiving

[0263] Step 1:

[0264] The user (food provider) opens the request list screen and checks the detailed information of each request, including the quantity of food requested, user information, and delivery address.

[0265] Step 2:

[0266] The user (food provider) arranges delivery. Specifically, they contact the delivery company and coordinate the delivery date and destination.

[0267] Step 3:

[0268] The server stores delivery information and pick-up point details in a database, including the name of the delivery company, expected delivery date and time, and the address of the pick-up point.

[0269] Step 4:

[0270] The server notifies the user (general user) by email or app notification, and includes the request ID, delivery information, and pickup point details.

[0271] Step 5:

[0272] The user (general user) receives the food at the designated pickup point. After receiving the food, the user presses the confirmation button to report the receipt to the server.

[0273] Steps in the functioning of the Emotion Engine

[0274] Step 1:

[0275] A terminal (general user) logs in to the system, and the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions. Emotion recognition is achieved by using methods such as questionnaire entries by the user and facial recognition.

[0276] Step 2:

[0277] The server analyzes the recognized emotion data and stores the results in a database. Based on the analysis results, the user's emotional state is recorded.

[0278] Step 3:

[0279] The server uses the emotion data to make personalized food suggestions, for example, if the user is feeling stressed, it will suggest foods that have stress-reducing effects.

[0280] Step 4:

[0281] The user (general user) checks the suggested food items and makes a request. The server processes this request in the same way as a normal request.

[0282] Step 5:

[0283] The server adjusts the priority of requests based on the user's emotional data, for example, giving a high priority to a request from a user who is in a very difficult situation.

[0284] Specific examples

[0285] Scenario 1: Donating surplus bread and using the emotion engine

[0286] 1. A user (baker) logs into the system and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of 2 days. The server stores this information in the database.

[0287] 2. The terminal (general user) searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and sends a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[0288] 3. The user (bakery) checks the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user (general user).

[0289] 4. The user (general user) receives the bread at the designated pickup point.

[0290] 5. The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. If the analysis shows that the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect to the user.

[0291] The present invention aims to reduce food waste and provide social support at a high level by streamlining the management and provision of surplus food by food providers and enabling personalized suggestions based on user emotions.

[0292] Example 2

[0293] Next, a description will be given of Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0294] This invention aims to solve the problem of reducing food waste and maximizing the effectiveness of social support by efficiently managing the provision and consumption of surplus food and by making personalized food suggestions based on the user's emotional state in a system where food providers can enter detailed information about surplus food and general users can search and request that information.

[0295] The identification process by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for a food provider to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for saving surplus food inventory information in a database, a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests, a means for updating food inventory and saving request information, a means for saving delivery information and pickup point information and notifying the user, and an emotion recognition means for recognizing the user's emotions and making personalized food suggestions. This not only improves the efficiency of surplus food management and provision, but also enables suggestions based on the user's emotional state, maximizing the effects of food waste reduction and social support.

[0296] "Food Provider" means an entity that inputs and manages details of surplus food into the system.

[0297] "Surplus food" refers to food that is nearing its expiration date or that is in excess supply due to a lack of demand.

[0298] "Detailed information" refers to specific data about surplus food, such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category.

[0299] A "general user" is someone who can use the system to search for surplus food and submit requests.

[0300] "Database" refers to a storage system for storing and managing food information and request information within the system.

[0301] "Search" is the act of locating information in a database based on entered criteria.

[0302] A "request" is an action in which a general user specifies the food they need and makes a request to the system.

[0303] "Inventory update" is an operation that increases or decreases the number of food items in stock according to a request.

[0304] "Delivery Information" means detailed information about where and how the requested food will be collected.

[0305] "Pickup Point" means a specific location where a public user can pick up their requested food.

[0306] "Emotion recognition means" is a technology for analyzing and recognizing the user's emotional state.

[0307] "Personalized food suggestions" refers to the act of recommending specific foods based on a user's emotional state and preferences.

[0308] This invention is a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food, and allows general users to search and request that information. Furthermore, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions, the system makes personalized food suggestions based on the user's emotions and adjusts the priority of requests. The system aims to reduce food waste and maximize the effectiveness of social support.

[0309] Hardware and Software Description

[0310] (Hardware)

[0311] PC: The basic device for food service providers and general users to access the system.

[0312] Tablets: Highly portable devices that make it easy to enter and review data in the field.

[0313] Smartphone: A device that is easily portable and allows users to access the system wherever they are.

[0314] (software)

[0315] Web Browser: The software that a User uses to access the System and enter, search, and request food information.

[0316] Food registration form: An interface for food providers to enter details of their surplus food.

[0317] Database management system: A system for storing and managing information on surplus food, requests, delivery information, etc.

[0318] Search engine: A function that allows the general public to search for surplus food.

[0319] Notification system: Software used to notify users of delivery and pick-up point information.

[0320] Emotion recognition software: Software that analyzes the emotions of ordinary users and makes personalized suggestions.

[0321] Data analysis tool: A tool for analyzing user behavioral data and input data and providing feedback to the emotion engine.

[0322] Suggestion algorithm: An algorithm to suggest the best food for the user based on the emotion recognition results.

[0323] Specific examples

[0324] 1. Food registration for food providers

[0325] The user (food provider) opens a web browser on their PC and accesses the system from the login screen. After logging in, they enter detailed information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category into the food registration form and send it to the server. The server stores the received information in a database.

[0326] 2. Matching surplus food to demand

[0327] The terminal (general user) opens a web browser on their smartphone and logs in to the system. They enter search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date) on the food search screen and press the search button. The server retrieves a list of surplus food items that match the criteria from the database and returns it to the terminal. The user selects the food items they need from the list and submits a request. The server checks the inventory and saves the request information in the database.

[0328] 3. Delivery and Pickup Coordination

[0329] The user (food provider) logs in to the system again and checks the request information. They prepare the necessary food, enter the delivery information, and send it to the server. The server saves the delivery information in a database and notifies the general user. The user (general user) receives the notification and picks up the food at the designated pickup point.

[0330] 4. Additional features of the emotion engine

[0331] The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again using a smartphone, and the emotion recognition software analyzes the user's emotions. Based on the analysis results, the emotion engine suggests foods that have a stress-reducing effect if the user is feeling stressed. It also accumulates the user's emotional state and adjusts the priority of requests.

[0332] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0333] Please write a "Requirements Specification for adding new features to the Surplus Food Management System." Please include the following:

[0334] 1. Detailed operating procedures for food registration by food suppliers and the software and hardware to be used

[0335] 2. Flow of surplus food demand matching and involved entities (users, terminals, servers)

[0336] 3. Delivery and receipt coordination flow, systems used, and entities involved

[0337] 4. Explanation of additional features of the emotion engine, emotion recognition method, and details of the proposed algorithm

[0338] This will enable the system to strengthen cooperation between food providers and general users, contributing to reducing food waste throughout society.

[0339] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0340] Step 1:

[0341] A user logs into the system

[0342] Input: Username, Password

[0343] Specific operation: The user (food provider) enters their username and password into the login form on the web browser and clicks the login button.

[0344] Data calculation and output: The server checks the entered username and password against the authentication database, and if they match, the authentication is successful and the user is redirected to the dashboard. If they do not match, an error message is displayed.

[0345] Step 2:

[0346] Fill in your details on the food registration form

[0347] Input: Food name, expiration date, quantity, category

[0348] Specific operation: The user (food provider) enters detailed information about surplus food into the food registration form on the dashboard and clicks the registration button.

[0349] Data processing and output: The server converts the input information into JSON format, generates an SQL query to store it in the database, executes the query, and displays a registration success message to the user.

[0350] Step 3:

[0351] Open the food search screen and enter your search criteria

[0352] Input: Category, Best Before Date, Quantity

[0353] Specific operation: The terminal (general user) opens the food search screen on a web browser, enters search criteria, and clicks the search button.

[0354] Data calculation and output: The server receives the entered search criteria, executes a search query against the database, and returns the resulting list of surplus food to the terminal and displays it as a search result.

[0355] Step 4:

[0356] The user selects the food they need and submits the request information

[0357] Input: Food list, Request quantity

[0358] Specific operation: The user (general user) selects the food item they need from the search results list, enters the requested quantity, and clicks the request button.

[0359] Data calculation and output: The server receives the request information and checks the inventory. If there is enough inventory, it reduces the inventory and saves the request information in the database. Once the saving is complete, it displays a request success message to the user.

[0360] Step 5:

[0361] The user confirms the request information and prepares for delivery

[0362] Input: Request information

[0363] Specific operation: The user (food provider) logs in to the system, checks the request information, and prepares the requested food. Once preparation is complete, the user enters delivery information and clicks the delivery button.

[0364] Data calculation and output: The server saves the entered delivery information in a database and displays a delivery preparation completion message to the user.

[0365] Step 6:

[0366] Notifying general users of delivery information

[0367] Input:Shipping information

[0368] Specific operation: The server sends a notification to the general user based on the delivery information, including details of the delivery date and time and pick-up point.

[0369] Data calculation and output: The server identifies the user ID based on the delivery information and sends a notification to the corresponding user's contact information. If the notification is sent successfully, a notification sending completion message is displayed on the management screen.

[0370] Step 7:

[0371] The user receives the food at the designated pickup point.

[0372] Input: Notification content

[0373] Specific operation: The user (general user) receives a notification and goes to the specified date and time and pickup point to pick up the food.

[0374] Data Calculation and Output: Server side processing is not included here, but the user follows a verification procedure when receiving the food from the logistics company or the staff at the pick-up point.

[0375] Step 8:

[0376] Emotion engine analyzes user emotions and makes personalized suggestions

[0377] Input: User behavior data, input data

[0378] Specific operation: The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine collects the user's past behavioral data and input data.

[0379] Data calculation and output: The server uses emotion recognition software to analyze the collected data and recognize the user's emotional state (e.g., stress level). The recommendation algorithm then selects the most suitable foods and notifies the user with personalized suggestions. The suggestions are displayed to the user on their device.

[0380] (Application example 2)

[0381] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0382] There is a need for a system that can efficiently manage and provide surplus food from food providers while also making personalized suggestions to general users. In particular, it is important to improve user satisfaction and reduce food waste by making suggestions that take user emotions into consideration. However, current systems have difficulty making flexible suggestions that take user emotions into consideration. Another challenge is efficiently matching surplus food demand and managing delivery information.

[0383] The identification processing by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for a food provider to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for saving surplus food inventory information in a database, a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests, a means for updating food inventory and saving request information, a means for saving delivery information and pickup point information and notifying the user, and a means for analyzing user emotions using an emotion engine as a personalized suggestion means and making food suggestions based on the emotions. This enables food providers to efficiently manage and provide surplus food and make personalized suggestions based on the user's emotions.

[0384] Key word definitions

[0385] "Food providers" refers to companies and individuals that provide food at restaurants, supermarkets, markets, etc.

[0386] "Surplus food" refers to food that was expected to be sold or consumed but was not used within the specified time frame.

[0387] "Detailed information" refers to specific information about the item, such as the food's name, expiration date, quantity, and category.

[0388] "Database" refers to a system for storing and managing surplus food inventory information and user request information.

[0389] "General users" refer to consumers who are eligible to receive surplus food.

[0390] "Search tools" refers to a function that allows general users to search for information about surplus food based on certain criteria.

[0391] "Request method" refers to the operations or functions that general users use to request the provision of surplus food selected by them.

[0392] "Inventory update means" refers to a function for updating surplus food inventory information to the latest state after a request is sent.

[0393] "Delivery information" refers to information about the logistics of surplus food until it is delivered.

[0394] "Pick-up point" refers to a designated location for the public to pick up surplus food.

[0395] "Notification means" refers to the function for communicating delivery information and pickup point information to general users.

[0396] An "emotion engine" refers to a system for analyzing user emotions.

[0397] "Personalized suggestion means" refers to a function that uses an emotion engine to suggest food based on the user's emotions.

[0398] A "generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence model that generates specific results based on user-entered data.

[0399] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0400] This invention combines a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and allows general users to search and request that information with an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions. The system consists of the following main components:

[0401] Food registration for food providers

[0402] The server provides a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food. For example, information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category is entered and saved in a database. This ensures that the data on the surplus food provided is accurately registered in the system. This data entry is done via a web browser or smartphone application.

[0403] Matching surplus food demand

[0404] Ordinary users log in to the system using a smartphone application or web interface and search for surplus food. After entering search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.), the server searches the database and displays a list of surplus food that matches the criteria. The user selects the food they need from the list and submits a request. The server receives the request, checks inventory information, updates the inventory, and saves the request information in the database.

[0405] Coordinating delivery and receiving

[0406] The food provider confirms the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the delivery information and pickup point information in a database and notifies the user. The user can then pick up the food at the designated pickup point. Notifications are usually sent via email or in-app notifications.

[0407] Additional features of the Emotion Engine

[0408] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and makes personalized food suggestions based on those emotions. The server analyzes the emotion data entered by the user using a generative AI model. Based on the analysis results, personalized suggestions are made. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have the effect of reducing stress. The server can also analyze the user's emotion data and adjust the priority of requests based on the results. For example, a request from a user who is in a very difficult situation can be given a higher priority.

[0409] Specific examples

[0410] Donating surplus bread and using the emotion engine

[0411] 1. The user (food provider) enters the details of 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of two days into the system and stores it in the database.

[0412] 2. A general user searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and submits a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[0413] 3. The food provider confirms the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user.

[0414] 4. Public users will collect their bread at designated pick-up points.

[0415] 5. The user logs in again to the system, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. If the user is found to be feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect to the user.

[0416] Examples of prompt statements

[0417] "In one word, describe how you've been feeling lately. Write down what you're feeling right now."

[0418] Hardware / Software Used

[0419] Server: Use cloud services such as AWS (registered trademark) or Google (registered trademark).

[0420] Database: Manage food information and request information using MySQL, PostgreSQL, etc.

[0421] Emotion engine: Uses emotion analysis services such as IBM Watson(R) and Microsoft(R) Azure(R) Cognitive Services.

[0422] Smartphone application: Developed as an application for iOS or ANDROID (registered trademark).

[0423] In this way, the present invention will realize a high level of food waste reduction and social support by streamlining the management and provision of surplus food by food providers and enabling personalized suggestions based on user emotions.

[0424] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0425] System program processing flow

[0426] Details of each processing step

[0427] Step 1:

[0428] The server provides an interface for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food. Food providers input detailed information such as the food's name, expiration date, quantity, and category. This input data is received by the server and stored in a database. Input: Food name, expiration date, quantity, category. Output: Registered surplus food data.

[0429] Step 2:

[0430] A general user logs in to the system using a terminal and opens the food search screen. The general user enters search criteria such as category and expiration date, and presses the search button. The server searches the database and retrieves a list of surplus food that matches the search criteria. Input: Search criteria (category, expiration date, etc.). Output: List of matching surplus food.

[0431] Step 3:

[0432] A general user selects the food item they need from the search results, enters the requested quantity, and presses the request button. The server receives the request information and checks the stock information in the database. If there is sufficient stock, the server reduces the stock and saves the request information. Input: Requested food item and requested quantity. Output: Updated stock information and saved request information.

[0433] Step 4:

[0434] The food provider uses the terminal to check the request information. The server provides the food provider with the request information and corresponding inventory information. The food provider prepares for delivery. The server saves the delivery information and pickup point information in a database and notifies the general user. Input: Request information. Output: Delivery information and pickup point notification.

[0435] Step 5:

[0436] The general user picks up the food at the designated pickup point. At this time, the server performs a receipt confirmation process for the general user and stores the receipt information in the database. Input: Receipt confirmation by the general user. Output: Stored receipt information.

[0437] Step 6:

[0438] A regular user logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. The user enters text that expresses their recent emotions, and the server sends that text to the generative AI model. The generative AI model performs emotion analysis and sends the results back to the server. Input: User's emotion text. Output: Analyzed emotion data.

[0439] Step 7:

[0440] The server's emotion engine makes food recommendations suitable for the user based on the analyzed emotion data. For example, for a user who is feeling stressed, it will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect. This recommendation information is notified to the general user. Input: Analyzed emotion data. Output: Notification of food recommendations based on emotion.

[0441] Examples of prompt statements

[0442] "In one word, describe how you've been feeling lately. Write down what you're feeling right now."

[0443] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the smart device 14. In the smart device 14, the control unit 46A causes the output device 40 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 38B acquires audio indicating a user input regarding the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits audio data indicating the user input acquired by the microphone 38B to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.

[0444] The data generation model 58 is a so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). An example of the data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (registered trademark) (Internet search engine).<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> ), Gemini (registered trademark) (Internet search <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">) and other generation AIs. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. A prompt including an instruction is input to the data generation model 58, and inference data such as voice data indicating voice, text data indicating text, and image data indicating an image is also input. The data generation model 58 performs inference on the input inference data in accordance with the instruction indicated by the prompt, and outputs the inference result in a data format such as voice data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.

[0445] In the above embodiment, an example in which the specific process is performed by the data processing device 12 has been given, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific process may be performed by the smart device 14.

[0446] [Second embodiment]

[0447] FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 210 according to the second embodiment.

[0448] 3, the data processing system 210 includes the data processing device 12 and smart glasses 214. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[0449] The data processing device 12 includes a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication I / F 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The computer 22 includes a processor 28, a RAM 30, and a storage 32. The processor 28, the RAM 30, and the storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication I / F 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication I / F 26 is connected to a network 54. Examples of the network 54 include a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0450] The smart glasses 214 include a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, and a communication I / F 44. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, a RAM 48, and a storage 50. The processor 46, the RAM 48, and the storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, the speaker 240, and the camera 42 are also connected to the bus 52.

[0451] The microphone 238 receives instructions and the like from the user 20 by receiving voice uttered by the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice uttered by the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio in accordance with instructions from the processor 46.

[0452] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the surroundings of user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by an angle of view equivalent to the field of vision of a typical healthy person).

[0453] The communication I / F 44 is connected to a network 54. The communication I / Fs 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 via the network 54. The exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 using the communication I / Fs 44 and 26 is carried out in a secure state.

[0454] Fig. 4 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart glasses 214. As shown in Fig. 4, in the data processing device 12, a specific process is performed by the processor 28. A specific process program 56 is stored in the storage 32.

[0455] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.

[0456] The storage 32 stores a data generation model 58 and an emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.

[0457] In the smart glasses 214, the reception output process is performed by the processor 46. A reception output program 60 is stored in the storage 50. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output process is realized by the processor 46 operating as the control unit 46A in accordance with the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.

[0458] Next, a description will be given of the identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as the "terminal."

[0459] This invention is a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and store it in a database, allowing general users to search that information and request the food they need. This system is designed to efficiently transfer food between food providers and general users, achieving both food waste reduction and social support.

[0460] System Program

[0461] Food registration for food providers

[0462] Users (food providers) log into the system and enter detailed information about their surplus food, including the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category. The server receives this information and stores it in a database. At this stage, food providers can review and modify the information they entered.

[0463] Matching surplus food demand

[0464] A terminal (general user) accesses the system and displays a list of surplus food currently being offered. The user (general user) selects the food item they need from the list, enters the requested quantity, and submits it. The server that receives this request checks the inventory of the requested food item, updates the inventory if the required quantity is available, and saves the request information in a database.

[0465] Coordinating delivery and receiving

[0466] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the information of the delivery company and pickup point in a database and notifies the user. This notification allows the user (general user) to receive the food at the specified pickup point.

[0467] Specific examples

[0468] Scenario 1: Donating surplus bread

[0469] 1. A user (baker) logs into the system and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of 2 days. The server stores this information in the database.

[0470] 2. The terminal (general user) searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and sends a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[0471] 3. The user (bakery) checks the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user (general user).

[0472] 4. The user (general user) receives the bread at the designated pickup point.

[0473] In this way, the present invention enables the effective management and transfer of surplus food between food providers and general users, thereby simultaneously achieving a reduction in food waste and social support.

[0474] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0475] Processing flow

[0476] Food Registration Steps

[0477] Step 1:

[0478] The user (food provider) logs in to the system. The user enters their user ID and password on the login screen and presses the login button.

[0479] Step 2:

[0480] The server authenticates the user by checking the entered user ID and password against the authentication information in the database. If authentication is successful, the user proceeds to the food registration screen.

[0481] Step 3:

[0482] The user (food provider) enters detailed information about the surplus food, such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category, and then presses the register button.

[0483] Step 4:

[0484] The server receives the entered surplus food information and stores it in a database, where the format and consistency of the information is checked.

[0485] Steps for matching surplus food with demand

[0486] Step 1:

[0487] The terminal (general user) accesses the system and opens the food search screen. The user enters search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.) and presses the search button.

[0488] Step 2:

[0489] The server searches the database and displays a list of surplus food items that match the criteria on the terminal, from which the user can select the food items they need.

[0490] Step 3:

[0491] The user (general user) enters the requested amount and presses the request button. The request details include the request ID, user ID, food ID, requested amount, etc.

[0492] Step 4:

[0493] The server receives the request and checks the inventory information in its database to ensure that the requested food item is in sufficient stock.

[0494] Step 5:

[0495] The server updates the inventory and saves the request information in the database. The inventory is reduced by the requested amount and the request information is registered as a new record.

[0496] Steps for coordinating delivery and receiving

[0497] Step 1:

[0498] The user (food provider) opens the request list screen and checks the detailed information of each request, including the quantity of food requested, user information, and delivery address.

[0499] Step 2:

[0500] The user (food provider) arranges delivery. Specifically, they contact the delivery company and coordinate the delivery date and destination.

[0501] Step 3:

[0502] The server stores delivery information and pick-up point details in a database, including the name of the delivery company, expected delivery date and time, and the address of the pick-up point.

[0503] Step 4:

[0504] The server notifies the user (general user) by email or app notification, and includes the request ID, delivery information, and pickup point details.

[0505] Step 5:

[0506] The user (general user) receives the food at the designated pickup point. After receiving the food, the user presses the confirmation button to report the receipt to the server.

[0507] By implementing the above steps, food providers can efficiently manage surplus food and provide necessary food to general users. By using this system, it is possible to simultaneously reduce food waste and provide social support.

[0508] Example 1

[0509] Next, a description will be given of Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0510] There is a need for a system that can effectively transfer surplus food between food providers and general users, reducing food waste and providing social support. However, existing systems have had problems with inefficient food inventory management, request processing, and delivery and pickup coordination. Furthermore, there is no system that consistently handles these processes, making it difficult to improve the user experience.

[0511] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the first embodiment is realized by the following means.

[0512] In this invention, the server includes a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for storing food inventory information in a database, and a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests. This allows food providers to efficiently input detailed information about surplus food, and general users to easily request the food they need. Furthermore, consistent updates to inventory management and notifications of delivery information enable an efficient food delivery process, reducing food waste and supporting society.

[0513] "Food provider" refers to a business or organization that provides surplus food.

[0514] "Surplus food" refers to food provided by donors that is nearing its expiration date or best-before date, or that is in excess stock.

[0515] "General users" refer to consumers and individuals who use the system to search for surplus food and request the food they need.

[0516] "Database" refers to an information storage system for centrally managing food inventory information, request information, delivery information, etc.

[0517] "Inventory information" refers to detailed data stored in a database, such as the type, quantity, and expiration date of the food offered.

[0518] "Request" refers to a request sent by a general user to a provider through the system, specifying the quantity of food required.

[0519] "Delivery Information" means the details of how the provided food will be delivered to the designated pick-up point.

[0520] "Pickup Point" means a location designated for a Consumer to actually pick up the requested Food.

[0521] "Notifications" refers to messages the system sends to users informing them of food requests, delivery status, pickup location information, etc.

[0522] "Authentication" refers to the verification methods, such as user ID and password, used when food providers log in to the system.

[0523] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0524] This invention is a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and store it in a database, allowing general users to search that information and request the food they need. This system is designed to efficiently transfer food between food providers and general users, achieving both food waste reduction and social support.

[0525] The system is implemented using the following hardware and software:

[0526] Hardware and Software Examples

[0527] Server: A central processing computer that uses web server software such as Apache Tomcat.

[0528] Database: We use relational database management systems such as MySQL to centrally manage food inventory information, request information, delivery information, etc.

[0529] Client terminal: A device used by food providers and general users to access the system, using a web browser (e.g., Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox).

[0530] System Operation

[0531] 1. Food provider login and food information registration

[0532] The user (food provider) accesses the system from a web browser on a client terminal and logs in using authentication methods (user ID, password). The server verifies the authentication information, and if authentication is successful, displays a dashboard to the user. The food provider enters detailed information about the surplus food (food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.) into the "food registration form" and clicks the submit button. The server stores this information in a database.

[0533] 2. Display of surplus food list and requests from the public

[0534] The terminal (general user) accesses the system using a web browser and displays a list of surplus food. The server retrieves current surplus food information from the database and sends it to the client terminal. The general user selects the food they need from the list, enters the requested quantity, and clicks the send button. The server checks the inventory based on the received request information.

[0535] 3. Server processes request and updates inventory

[0536] The server checks the inventory of the requested food, and if the required quantity is available, updates the inventory quantity and saves the request information in the database. After the request is successfully processed, the server sends a notification to the general user that the processing is complete.

[0537] 4. Delivery and Pickup Coordination

[0538] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the information of the delivery company and pick-up location in a database and notifies the general user. The general user checks the notification and picks up the food at the specified pick-up location.

[0539] Specific examples

[0540] For example, consider a scenario in which a food provider from a bakery logs in and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a two-day expiration date. The server saves this information in a database. A general user then searches for "surplus bread" in the system, selects 10 loaves from the list, and submits a request. The server checks the inventory, subtracts 10 loaves from the inventory, and saves the request information in the database. The food provider prepares delivery based on the request information, and the server notifies the general user of the delivery information. The general user then picks up the 10 loaves at the notified pickup point.

[0541] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0542] Please provide detailed steps and sample code for the system for food providers and general users. In this system, food providers enter details about surplus food, general users search and request that information, and the food provider receives the request and coordinates delivery and pickup. Please explain the specific process for each step, including sample code.

[0543] In this way, the present invention achieves both food waste reduction and social support by enabling efficient interaction between food providers and general users and smooth transfer of surplus food.

[0544] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0545] Step 1: Food Provider Login and Authentication

[0546] The user (food provider) accesses the system from the web browser on the client terminal, enters the user ID and password, and clicks the login button.

[0547] The server receives the authentication information (user ID and password) sent by the user and compares it with the registered information in the database. If authentication is successful, the dashboard screen is displayed to the user.

[0548] Input: User ID and password

[0549] Data calculation: Retrieve user information from the database and compare it with the entered authentication information

[0550] Output: If authentication is successful, the dashboard screen is output. If authentication fails, an error message is output.

[0551] Step 2: Register food information

[0552] The user (food provider) enters detailed information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category into the "Food Registration Form" on the dashboard and clicks the submit button.

[0553] The server receives the entered food information and saves it in the database. If the save is successful, it outputs a "Registration Complete" message to the user.

[0554] Input: Food details such as food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.

[0555] Data calculation: Entered food information is saved in a database

[0556] Output: Outputs a registration completion message

[0557] Step 3: Display the surplus food list

[0558] The terminal (general user) accesses the system using a web browser and opens a screen displaying a list of surplus food.

[0559] The server retrieves information on current surplus food from the database and sends it to the terminal to display the list.

[0560] Input: None (screen access by general users only)

[0561] Data calculation: Obtaining surplus food information from the database

[0562] Output: Display the surplus food list on the user's device

[0563] Step 4: Request surplus food

[0564] The user (general user) selects the food item they need from the displayed list of surplus food items, enters the requested quantity, and clicks the send button.

[0565] The server checks the stock based on the received request information, and if there is sufficient stock, it saves the request information in the database and outputs a request processing completion message to the user.

[0566] Input: Type and quantity of food you would like to request

[0567] Data calculation: Retrieve inventory information from the database, check and update inventory, and save request information.

[0568] Output: A message is displayed to the user indicating that the request has been processed.

[0569] Step 5: Prepare and notify delivery

[0570] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. They input information about the delivery company and the pick-up location into the system.

[0571] The server stores the entered delivery information and pick-up location information in a database and notifies the general user.

[0572] Input: Delivery company and pickup location information

[0573] Data calculation: Delivery information and pick-up location information are stored in a database

[0574] Output: Send notification message to general users

[0575] Step 6: Pick up your food

[0576] The user (general user) receives a notification from the server and visits the designated pick-up location to pick up the food.

[0577] Input: Notified pick-up location information

[0578] Data calculation: None (user receiving action)

[0579] Output: None (user receives food directly)

[0580] These steps ensure consistent processing throughout the system, enabling smooth delivery of food between food providers and general users.

[0581] (Application example 1)

[0582] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0583] The present invention aims to reduce food waste and realize social support by providing a system that can efficiently deliver surplus food that food providers would otherwise have to discard to users who need it. Another challenge is to create a system that allows users to easily obtain surplus food, in line with today's busy lifestyles.

[0584] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 1 is realized by the following means.

[0585] In this invention, the server includes a means for a food provider to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for saving surplus food inventory information in a database, a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests for it, a means for updating food inventory and saving the request information, a means for saving delivery information and pickup point information and notifying the user, a means for users to input the quantity of food requested, and a means for efficiently receiving food in cooperation with a food delivery service. This enables food providers to effectively manage surplus food and quickly deliver it to users who need it while reducing food waste.

[0586] "Food provider" refers to a company or individual that provides surplus food and is responsible for entering detailed information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category into the system.

[0587] "Surplus food" is food that is not being sold due to an approaching expiration date or low demand, and is subject to registration by food providers in the system.

[0588] "Inventory information" is data stored in a database that includes detailed information such as the type, quantity, and expiration date of surplus food.

[0589] "General users" refer to consumers who access the system to search for surplus food and submit requests as needed.

[0590] "Search means" refers to the function or interface that allows general users to search within the system for detailed information about surplus food.

[0591] "Request means" refers to the function that enables general users to request the quantity and type of surplus food they need from the system.

[0592] "Delivery Information" refers to data that includes details such as delivery method, delivery company, and pickup point for the requested surplus food.

[0593] "Pick-up Point" means a designated location for the public to pick up their requested surplus food items.

[0594] "User notification means" refers to a function within the system for informing users of delivery information and pickup point information.

[0595] "Quantity input means" refers to a function that allows a user to input the quantity of food that they wish to request into the system.

[0596] Collaboration with "food delivery services" refers to the collaboration function that enables the system to share information with food delivery companies and realize efficient delivery and collection of food.

[0597] The present invention provides a system for efficiently transferring surplus food from food providers to general users. This system implements a series of processes: food providers input and save detailed information about surplus food, general users search that information, request the food they need, and coordinate the transfer.

[0598] System Configuration

[0599] The system includes the following major components:

[0600] 1. Food provider terminal

[0601] This terminal provides a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food (food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.) via a web browser or smartphone app.

[0602] Software used: React Native (for smartphone apps), web browser (for PCs)

[0603] 2. Database Server

[0604] The server stores the information about surplus food sent by food providers in a database.

[0605] Software used: PostgreSQL (database management system)

[0606] 3. Backend Server

[0607] The server provides the functionality to search for and accept requests for surplus food and update inventory information.

[0608] Software used: Node.js and Express.js (backend framework)

[0609] 4. General User Devices

[0610] The terminal allows users to search the list of surplus food items and request the food they need via a web browser or smartphone app, and also allows them to input and submit the requested food quantity.

[0611] Software used: React Native (for smartphone apps), web browser (for PCs)

[0612] 5. Notification System

[0613] Provide means to notify users of delivery information and pickup point information, including in-app notifications, emails, SMS, etc.

[0614] Software used: Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) or similar notification service

[0615] 6. Delivery service collaboration

[0616] Work with food delivery services to efficiently deliver requested surplus food to designated pickup points.

[0617] Delivery method: API integration, integration with third-party delivery services

[0618] Example of operation

[0619] 1. Food Provider Operations

[0620] Food suppliers log in to the system from their terminals and enter detailed information about their surplus food. The information entered is then stored in the database server.

[0621] 2. General User Operations

[0622] A general user accesses the system from a terminal, searches the list of surplus food, selects the food they need from the list, specifies the quantity, and submits a request.

[0623] 3. Notification and Receipt

[0624] The server checks the inventory based on the request, and if the inventory is available, updates the request information. The delivery information and pickup point information are then notified to the general user. The general user can then pick up the food at the specified pickup point.

[0625] Examples of prompt statements

[0626] Prompt: "Build an app that displays a list of surplus food items registered by food providers and allows users to request the food they want. The food registration should include information such as food name, expiration date, quantity, and category, and it should also handle inventory management and request processing."

[0627] This will enable food providers to effectively manage surplus food, reduce food waste, and provide food to the general public quickly and efficiently.

[0628] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0629] Step 1:

[0630] A food supplier logs into the system from a terminal. The terminal receives user authentication information (user name, password) as input and sends it to the server. The server compares the authentication information in the database and outputs the authentication result (login success or failure).

[0631] Step 2:

[0632] Food providers who have been successfully authenticated enter detailed information about the surplus food (food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.) into a terminal. The entered information is converted into a data format on the terminal and sent to the server. The server stores this information in a database.

[0633] Step 3:

[0634] A general user accesses the system from a terminal and displays a list of surplus food. The terminal sends a request for the food list to the server. The server retrieves the list of surplus food from the database and sends it to the terminal. The terminal displays the retrieved information to the user.

[0635] Step 4:

[0636] A user selects the food item they need from the list, specifies the requested quantity, and sends it from their terminal. The terminal then sends this request information to the server. The server updates the inventory information in the database and saves the request information.

[0637] Step 5:

[0638] The server generates delivery information and pickup point information based on the request and notifies the user. The server obtains the delivery information in cooperation with the delivery service and sends a notification to the user's terminal. The terminal displays the notification information to the user.

[0639] Step 6:

[0640] A general user picks up food at a designated pickup point. The user confirms the completion of the pickup on the terminal and sends it to the server. The server saves the pickup information in a database and completes the process.

[0641] This will enable food providers to manage surplus food and enable general users to quickly obtain the food they need.

[0642] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotion may be further combined. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may estimate the user's emotion using the emotion identification model 59, and perform identification processing using the user's emotion.

[0643] This invention combines a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and allows general users to search and request that information with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. This system can make personalized food suggestions based on the user's emotions and adjust the priority of requests. The aim of this combination is to reduce food waste and maximize the effectiveness of social support.

[0644] Work content and system processing

[0645] Food registration for food providers

[0646] Users (food providers) log in to the system and enter detailed information about their surplus food, including the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category. The server receives this information and stores it in a database. This process ensures that the data on the surplus food provided is accurately registered in the system.

[0647] Matching surplus food demand

[0648] The terminal (general user) logs in to the system and opens the food search screen. The user enters search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.) and presses the search button. The server searches the database and displays a list of surplus foods that match the criteria on the terminal. The user selects the desired food from the list. For the selected food, the user enters the requested quantity and presses the request button. The server receives the request and checks the inventory. If there is sufficient inventory, it updates the inventory and saves the request information.

[0649] Coordinating delivery and receiving

[0650] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the information of the delivery company and pickup point in a database and notifies the user. This notification allows the user (general user) to receive the food at the specified pickup point.

[0651] Additional features of the Emotion Engine

[0652] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and makes personalized food recommendations based on those emotions. For example, if a user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have the effect of reducing stress. The emotion engine can also analyze the user's emotion data and adjust the priority of requests based on the results. For example, a request from a user who is in a very difficult situation can be given a higher priority.

[0653] Specific examples

[0654] Scenario 1: Donating surplus bread and using the emotion engine

[0655] 1. A user (baker) logs into the system and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of 2 days. The server stores this information in the database.

[0656] 2. The terminal (general user) searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and sends a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[0657] 3. The user (bakery) checks the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user (general user).

[0658] 4. The user (general user) receives the bread at the designated pickup point.

[0659] 5. The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. If the analysis shows that the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect to the user.

[0660] The present invention aims to reduce food waste and provide social support at a high level by streamlining the management and provision of surplus food by food providers and enabling personalized suggestions based on user emotions.

[0661] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0662] Processing flow

[0663] Food Registration Steps

[0664] Step 1:

[0665] The user (food provider) logs in to the system. The user enters their user ID and password on the login screen and presses the login button.

[0666] Step 2:

[0667] The server authenticates the user by checking the entered user ID and password against the authentication information in the database. If authentication is successful, the user proceeds to the food registration screen.

[0668] Step 3:

[0669] The user (food provider) enters detailed information about the surplus food, such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category, and then presses the register button.

[0670] Step 4:

[0671] The server receives the entered surplus food information and stores it in a database, where the format and consistency of the information is checked.

[0672] Steps for matching surplus food with demand

[0673] Step 1:

[0674] The terminal (general user) accesses the system and opens the food search screen. The user enters search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.) and presses the search button.

[0675] Step 2:

[0676] The server searches the database and displays a list of surplus food items that match the criteria on the terminal, from which the user can select the food items they need.

[0677] Step 3:

[0678] The user (general user) enters the requested amount and presses the request button. The request details include the request ID, user ID, food ID, requested amount, etc.

[0679] Step 4:

[0680] The server receives the request and checks the inventory information in its database to ensure that the requested food item is in sufficient stock.

[0681] Step 5:

[0682] The server updates the inventory and saves the request information in the database. The inventory is reduced by the requested amount and the request information is registered as a new record.

[0683] Steps for coordinating delivery and receiving

[0684] Step 1:

[0685] The user (food provider) opens the request list screen and checks the detailed information of each request, including the quantity of food requested, user information, and delivery address.

[0686] Step 2:

[0687] The user (food provider) arranges delivery. Specifically, they contact the delivery company and coordinate the delivery date and destination.

[0688] Step 3:

[0689] The server stores delivery information and pick-up point details in a database, including the name of the delivery company, expected delivery date and time, and the address of the pick-up point.

[0690] Step 4:

[0691] The server notifies the user (general user) by email or app notification, and includes the request ID, delivery information, and pickup point details.

[0692] Step 5:

[0693] The user (general user) receives the food at the designated pickup point. After receiving the food, the user presses the confirmation button to report the receipt to the server.

[0694] Steps in the functioning of the Emotion Engine

[0695] Step 1:

[0696] A terminal (general user) logs in to the system, and the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions. Emotion recognition is achieved by using methods such as questionnaire entries by the user and facial recognition.

[0697] Step 2:

[0698] The server analyzes the recognized emotion data and stores the results in a database. Based on the analysis results, the user's emotional state is recorded.

[0699] Step 3:

[0700] The server uses the emotion data to make personalized food suggestions, for example, if the user is feeling stressed, it will suggest foods that have stress-reducing effects.

[0701] Step 4:

[0702] The user (general user) checks the suggested food items and makes a request. The server processes this request in the same way as a normal request.

[0703] Step 5:

[0704] The server adjusts the priority of requests based on the user's emotional data, for example, giving a high priority to a request from a user who is in a very difficult situation.

[0705] Specific examples

[0706] Scenario 1: Donating surplus bread and using the emotion engine

[0707] 1. A user (baker) logs into the system and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of 2 days. The server stores this information in the database.

[0708] 2. The terminal (general user) searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and sends a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[0709] 3. The user (bakery) checks the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user (general user).

[0710] 4. The user (general user) receives the bread at the designated pickup point.

[0711] 5. The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. If the analysis shows that the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect to the user.

[0712] The present invention aims to reduce food waste and provide social support at a high level by streamlining the management and provision of surplus food by food providers and enabling personalized suggestions based on user emotions.

[0713] Example 2

[0714] Next, a description will be given of Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0715] This invention aims to solve the problem of reducing food waste and maximizing the effectiveness of social support by efficiently managing the provision and consumption of surplus food and by making personalized food suggestions based on the user's emotional state in a system where food providers can enter detailed information about surplus food and general users can search and request that information.

[0716] The identification process by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for a food provider to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for saving surplus food inventory information in a database, a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests, a means for updating food inventory and saving request information, a means for saving delivery information and pickup point information and notifying the user, and an emotion recognition means for recognizing the user's emotions and making personalized food suggestions. This not only improves the efficiency of surplus food management and provision, but also enables suggestions based on the user's emotional state, maximizing the effects of food waste reduction and social support.

[0717] "Food Provider" means an entity that inputs and manages details of surplus food into the system.

[0718] "Surplus food" refers to food that is nearing its expiration date or that is in excess supply due to a lack of demand.

[0719] "Detailed information" refers to specific data about surplus food, such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category.

[0720] A "general user" is someone who can use the system to search for surplus food and submit requests.

[0721] "Database" refers to a storage system for storing and managing food information and request information within the system.

[0722] "Search" is the act of locating information in a database based on entered criteria.

[0723] A "request" is an action in which a general user specifies the food they need and makes a request to the system.

[0724] "Inventory update" is an operation that increases or decreases the number of food items in stock according to a request.

[0725] "Delivery Information" means detailed information about where and how the requested food will be collected.

[0726] "Pickup Point" means a specific location where a public user can pick up their requested food.

[0727] "Emotion recognition means" is a technology for analyzing and recognizing the user's emotional state.

[0728] "Personalized food suggestions" refers to the act of recommending specific foods based on a user's emotional state and preferences.

[0729] This invention is a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food, and allows general users to search and request that information. Furthermore, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions, the system makes personalized food suggestions based on the user's emotions and adjusts the priority of requests. The system aims to reduce food waste and maximize the effectiveness of social support.

[0730] Hardware and Software Description

[0731] (Hardware)

[0732] PC: The basic device for food service providers and general users to access the system.

[0733] Tablets: Highly portable devices that make it easy to enter and review data in the field.

[0734] Smartphone: A device that is easily portable and allows users to access the system wherever they are.

[0735] (software)

[0736] Web Browser: The software that a User uses to access the System and enter, search, and request food information.

[0737] Food registration form: An interface for food providers to enter details of their surplus food.

[0738] Database management system: A system for storing and managing information on surplus food, requests, delivery information, etc.

[0739] Search engine: A function that allows the general public to search for surplus food.

[0740] Notification system: Software used to notify users of delivery and pick-up point information.

[0741] Emotion recognition software: Software that analyzes the emotions of ordinary users and makes personalized suggestions.

[0742] Data analysis tool: A tool for analyzing user behavioral data and input data and providing feedback to the emotion engine.

[0743] Suggestion algorithm: An algorithm to suggest the best food for the user based on the emotion recognition results.

[0744] Specific examples

[0745] 1. Food registration for food providers

[0746] The user (food provider) opens a web browser on their PC and accesses the system from the login screen. After logging in, they enter detailed information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category into the food registration form and send it to the server. The server stores the received information in a database.

[0747] 2. Matching surplus food to demand

[0748] The terminal (general user) opens a web browser on their smartphone and logs in to the system. They enter search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date) on the food search screen and press the search button. The server retrieves a list of surplus food items that match the criteria from the database and returns it to the terminal. The user selects the food items they need from the list and submits a request. The server checks the inventory and saves the request information in the database.

[0749] 3. Delivery and Pickup Coordination

[0750] The user (food provider) logs in to the system again and checks the request information. They prepare the necessary food, enter the delivery information, and send it to the server. The server saves the delivery information in a database and notifies the general user. The user (general user) receives the notification and picks up the food at the designated pickup point.

[0751] 4. Additional features of the emotion engine

[0752] The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again using a smartphone, and the emotion recognition software analyzes the user's emotions. Based on the analysis results, the emotion engine suggests foods that have a stress-reducing effect if the user is feeling stressed. It also accumulates the user's emotional state and adjusts the priority of requests.

[0753] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0754] Please write a "Requirements Specification for adding new features to the Surplus Food Management System." Please include the following:

[0755] 1. Detailed operating procedures for food registration by food suppliers and the software and hardware to be used

[0756] 2. Flow of surplus food demand matching and involved entities (users, terminals, servers)

[0757] 3. Delivery and receipt coordination flow, systems used, and entities involved

[0758] 4. Explanation of additional features of the emotion engine, emotion recognition method, and details of the proposed algorithm

[0759] This will enable the system to strengthen cooperation between food providers and general users, contributing to reducing food waste throughout society.

[0760] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0761] Step 1:

[0762] A user logs into the system

[0763] Input: Username, Password

[0764] Specific operation: The user (food provider) enters their username and password into the login form on the web browser and clicks the login button.

[0765] Data calculation and output: The server checks the entered username and password against the authentication database, and if they match, the authentication is successful and the user is redirected to the dashboard. If they do not match, an error message is displayed.

[0766] Step 2:

[0767] Fill in your details on the food registration form

[0768] Input: Food name, expiration date, quantity, category

[0769] Specific operation: The user (food provider) enters detailed information about surplus food into the food registration form on the dashboard and clicks the registration button.

[0770] Data processing and output: The server converts the input information into JSON format, generates an SQL query to store it in the database, executes the query, and displays a registration success message to the user.

[0771] Step 3:

[0772] Open the food search screen and enter your search criteria

[0773] Input: Category, Best Before Date, Quantity

[0774] Specific operation: The terminal (general user) opens the food search screen on a web browser, enters search criteria, and clicks the search button.

[0775] Data calculation and output: The server receives the entered search criteria, executes a search query against the database, and returns the resulting list of surplus food to the terminal and displays it as a search result.

[0776] Step 4:

[0777] The user selects the food they need and submits the request information

[0778] Input: Food list, Request quantity

[0779] Specific operation: The user (general user) selects the food item they need from the search results list, enters the requested quantity, and clicks the request button.

[0780] Data calculation and output: The server receives the request information and checks the inventory. If there is enough inventory, it reduces the inventory and saves the request information in the database. Once the saving is complete, it displays a request success message to the user.

[0781] Step 5:

[0782] The user confirms the request information and prepares for delivery

[0783] Input: Request information

[0784] Specific operation: The user (food provider) logs in to the system, checks the request information, and prepares the requested food. Once preparation is complete, the user enters delivery information and clicks the delivery button.

[0785] Data calculation and output: The server saves the entered delivery information in a database and displays a delivery preparation completion message to the user.

[0786] Step 6:

[0787] Notifying general users of delivery information

[0788] Input:Shipping information

[0789] Specific operation: The server sends a notification to the general user based on the delivery information, including details of the delivery date and time and pick-up point.

[0790] Data calculation and output: The server identifies the user ID based on the delivery information and sends a notification to the corresponding user's contact information. If the notification is sent successfully, a notification sending completion message is displayed on the management screen.

[0791] Step 7:

[0792] The user receives the food at the designated pickup point.

[0793] Input: Notification content

[0794] Specific operation: The user (general user) receives a notification and goes to the specified date and time and pickup point to pick up the food.

[0795] Data Calculation and Output: Server side processing is not included here, but the user follows a verification procedure when receiving the food from the logistics company or the staff at the pick-up point.

[0796] Step 8:

[0797] Emotion engine analyzes user emotions and makes personalized suggestions

[0798] Input: User behavior data, input data

[0799] Specific operation: The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine collects the user's past behavioral data and input data.

[0800] Data calculation and output: The server uses emotion recognition software to analyze the collected data and recognize the user's emotional state (e.g., stress level). The recommendation algorithm then selects the most suitable foods and notifies the user with personalized suggestions. The suggestions are displayed to the user on their device.

[0801] (Application example 2)

[0802] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0803] There is a need for a system that can efficiently manage and provide surplus food from food providers while also making personalized suggestions to general users. In particular, it is important to improve user satisfaction and reduce food waste by making suggestions that take user emotions into consideration. However, current systems have difficulty making flexible suggestions that take user emotions into consideration. Another challenge is efficiently matching surplus food demand and managing delivery information.

[0804] The identification processing by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for a food provider to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for saving surplus food inventory information in a database, a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests, a means for updating food inventory and saving request information, a means for saving delivery information and pickup point information and notifying the user, and a means for analyzing user emotions using an emotion engine as a personalized suggestion means and making food suggestions based on the emotions. This enables food providers to efficiently manage and provide surplus food and make personalized suggestions based on the user's emotions.

[0805] Key word definitions

[0806] "Food providers" refers to companies and individuals that provide food at restaurants, supermarkets, markets, etc.

[0807] "Surplus food" refers to food that was expected to be sold or consumed but was not used within the specified time frame.

[0808] "Detailed information" refers to specific information about the item, such as the food's name, expiration date, quantity, and category.

[0809] "Database" refers to a system for storing and managing surplus food inventory information and user request information.

[0810] "General users" refer to consumers who are eligible to receive surplus food.

[0811] "Search tools" refers to a function that allows general users to search for information about surplus food based on certain criteria.

[0812] "Request method" refers to the operations or functions that general users use to request the provision of surplus food selected by them.

[0813] "Inventory update means" refers to a function for updating surplus food inventory information to the latest state after a request is sent.

[0814] "Delivery information" refers to information about the logistics of surplus food until it is delivered.

[0815] "Pick-up point" refers to a designated location for the public to pick up surplus food.

[0816] "Notification means" refers to the function for communicating delivery information and pickup point information to general users.

[0817] An "emotion engine" refers to a system for analyzing user emotions.

[0818] "Personalized suggestion means" refers to a function that uses an emotion engine to suggest food based on the user's emotions.

[0819] A "generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence model that generates specific results based on user-entered data.

[0820] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0821] This invention combines a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and allows general users to search and request that information with an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions. The system consists of the following main components:

[0822] Food registration for food providers

[0823] The server provides a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food. For example, information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category is entered and saved in a database. This ensures that the data on the surplus food provided is accurately registered in the system. This data entry is done via a web browser or smartphone application.

[0824] Matching surplus food demand

[0825] Ordinary users log in to the system using a smartphone application or web interface and search for surplus food. After entering search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.), the server searches the database and displays a list of surplus food that matches the criteria. The user selects the food they need from the list and submits a request. The server receives the request, checks inventory information, updates the inventory, and saves the request information in the database.

[0826] Coordinating delivery and receiving

[0827] The food provider confirms the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the delivery information and pickup point information in a database and notifies the user. The user can then pick up the food at the designated pickup point. Notifications are usually sent via email or in-app notifications.

[0828] Additional features of the Emotion Engine

[0829] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and makes personalized food suggestions based on those emotions. The server analyzes the emotion data entered by the user using a generative AI model. Based on the analysis results, personalized suggestions are made. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have the effect of reducing stress. The server can also analyze the user's emotion data and adjust the priority of requests based on the results. For example, a request from a user who is in a very difficult situation can be given a higher priority.

[0830] Specific examples

[0831] Donating surplus bread and using the emotion engine

[0832] 1. The user (food provider) enters the details of 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of two days into the system and stores it in the database.

[0833] 2. A general user searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and submits a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[0834] 3. The food provider confirms the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user.

[0835] 4. Public users will collect their bread at designated pick-up points.

[0836] 5. The user logs in again to the system, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. If the user is found to be feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect to the user.

[0837] Examples of prompt statements

[0838] "In one word, describe how you've been feeling lately. Write down what you're feeling right now."

[0839] Hardware / Software Used

[0840] Server: Use cloud services such as AWS or Google Cloud.

[0841] Database: Manage food information and request information using MySQL, PostgreSQL, etc.

[0842] Sentiment engine: Use sentiment analysis services such as IBM Watson and Microsoft Azure Cognitive Services.

[0843] Smartphone application: Develop as an application for iOS or Android.

[0844] In this way, the present invention will realize a high level of food waste reduction and social support by streamlining the management and provision of surplus food by food providers and enabling personalized suggestions based on user emotions.

[0845] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0846] System program processing flow

[0847] Details of each processing step

[0848] Step 1:

[0849] The server provides an interface for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food. Food providers input detailed information such as the food's name, expiration date, quantity, and category. This input data is received by the server and stored in a database. Input: Food name, expiration date, quantity, category. Output: Registered surplus food data.

[0850] Step 2:

[0851] A general user logs in to the system using a terminal and opens the food search screen. The general user enters search criteria such as category and expiration date, and presses the search button. The server searches the database and retrieves a list of surplus food that matches the search criteria. Input: Search criteria (category, expiration date, etc.). Output: List of matching surplus food.

[0852] Step 3:

[0853] A general user selects the food item they need from the search results, enters the requested quantity, and presses the request button. The server receives the request information and checks the stock information in the database. If there is sufficient stock, the server reduces the stock and saves the request information. Input: Requested food item and requested quantity. Output: Updated stock information and saved request information.

[0854] Step 4:

[0855] The food provider uses the terminal to check the request information. The server provides the food provider with the request information and corresponding inventory information. The food provider prepares for delivery. The server saves the delivery information and pickup point information in a database and notifies the general user. Input: Request information. Output: Delivery information and pickup point notification.

[0856] Step 5:

[0857] The general user picks up the food at the designated pickup point. At this time, the server performs a receipt confirmation process for the general user and stores the receipt information in the database. Input: Receipt confirmation by the general user. Output: Stored receipt information.

[0858] Step 6:

[0859] A regular user logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. The user enters text that expresses their recent emotions, and the server sends that text to the generative AI model. The generative AI model performs emotion analysis and sends the results back to the server. Input: User's emotion text. Output: Analyzed emotion data.

[0860] Step 7:

[0861] The server's emotion engine makes food recommendations suitable for the user based on the analyzed emotion data. For example, for a user who is feeling stressed, it will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect. This recommendation information is notified to the general user. Input: Analyzed emotion data. Output: Notification of food recommendations based on emotion.

[0862] Examples of prompt statements

[0863] "In one word, describe how you've been feeling lately. Write down what you're feeling right now."

[0864] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the smart glasses 214. In the smart glasses 214, the control unit 46A causes the speaker 240 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 238 acquires audio indicating a user input regarding the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits audio data indicating the user input acquired by the microphone 238 to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.

[0865] The data generation model 58 is a so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). An example of the data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (Internet Search<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> ), Gemini (Internet search <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">) and other generation AIs. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. A prompt including an instruction is input to the data generation model 58, and inference data such as voice data indicating voice, text data indicating text, and image data indicating an image is also input. The data generation model 58 performs inference on the input inference data in accordance with the instruction indicated by the prompt, and outputs the inference result in a data format such as voice data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.

[0866] In the above embodiment, an example in which the specific processing is performed by the data processing device 12 has been given, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific processing may be performed by the smart glasses 214.

[0867] [Third embodiment]

[0868] FIG. 5 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.

[0869] 5, the data processing system 310 includes the data processing device 12 and a headset terminal 314. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[0870] The data processing device 12 includes a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication I / F 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The computer 22 includes a processor 28, a RAM 30, and a storage 32. The processor 28, the RAM 30, and the storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication I / F 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication I / F 26 is connected to a network 54. Examples of the network 54 include a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0871] The headset type terminal 314 includes a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, a communication I / F 44, and a display 343. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, a RAM 48, and a storage 50. The processor 46, the RAM 48, and the storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, the speaker 240, the camera 42, and the display 343 are also connected to the bus 52.

[0872] The microphone 238 receives instructions and the like from the user 20 by receiving voice uttered by the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice uttered by the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio in accordance with instructions from the processor 46.

[0873] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the surroundings of user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by an angle of view equivalent to the field of vision of a typical healthy person).

[0874] The communication I / F 44 is connected to a network 54. The communication I / Fs 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 via the network 54. The exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 using the communication I / Fs 44 and 26 is carried out in a secure state.

[0875] Fig. 6 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the headset type terminal 314. As shown in Fig. 6, in the data processing device 12, a specific process is performed by the processor 28. A specific process program 56 is stored in the storage 32.

[0876] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.

[0877] The storage 32 stores a data generation model 58 and an emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.

[0878] In the headset type terminal 314, a reception output process is performed by the processor 46. A reception output program 60 is stored in the storage 50. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output process is realized by the processor 46 operating as the control unit 46A in accordance with the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.

[0879] Next, a description will be given of the identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the headset type terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal."

[0880] This invention is a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and store it in a database, allowing general users to search that information and request the food they need. This system is designed to efficiently transfer food between food providers and general users, achieving both food waste reduction and social support.

[0881] System Program

[0882] Food registration for food providers

[0883] Users (food providers) log into the system and enter detailed information about their surplus food, including the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category. The server receives this information and stores it in a database. At this stage, food providers can review and modify the information they entered.

[0884] Matching surplus food demand

[0885] A terminal (general user) accesses the system and displays a list of surplus food currently being offered. The user (general user) selects the food item they need from the list, enters the requested quantity, and submits it. The server that receives this request checks the inventory of the requested food item, updates the inventory if the required quantity is available, and saves the request information in a database.

[0886] Coordinating delivery and receiving

[0887] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the information of the delivery company and pickup point in a database and notifies the user. This notification allows the user (general user) to receive the food at the specified pickup point.

[0888] Specific examples

[0889] Scenario 1: Donating surplus bread

[0890] 1. A user (baker) logs into the system and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of 2 days. The server stores this information in the database.

[0891] 2. The terminal (general user) searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and sends a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[0892] 3. The user (bakery) checks the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user (general user).

[0893] 4. The user (general user) receives the bread at the designated pickup point.

[0894] In this way, the present invention enables the effective management and transfer of surplus food between food providers and general users, thereby simultaneously achieving a reduction in food waste and social support.

[0895] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0896] Processing flow

[0897] Food Registration Steps

[0898] Step 1:

[0899] The user (food provider) logs in to the system. The user enters their user ID and password on the login screen and presses the login button.

[0900] Step 2:

[0901] The server authenticates the user by checking the entered user ID and password against the authentication information in the database. If authentication is successful, the user proceeds to the food registration screen.

[0902] Step 3:

[0903] The user (food provider) enters detailed information about the surplus food, such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category, and then presses the register button.

[0904] Step 4:

[0905] The server receives the entered surplus food information and stores it in a database, where the format and consistency of the information is checked.

[0906] Steps for matching surplus food with demand

[0907] Step 1:

[0908] The terminal (general user) accesses the system and opens the food search screen. The user enters search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.) and presses the search button.

[0909] Step 2:

[0910] The server searches the database and displays a list of surplus food items that match the criteria on the terminal, from which the user can select the food items they need.

[0911] Step 3:

[0912] The user (general user) enters the requested amount and presses the request button. The request details include the request ID, user ID, food ID, requested amount, etc.

[0913] Step 4:

[0914] The server receives the request and checks the inventory information in its database to ensure that the requested food item is in sufficient stock.

[0915] Step 5:

[0916] The server updates the inventory and saves the request information in the database. The inventory is reduced by the requested amount and the request information is registered as a new record.

[0917] Steps for coordinating delivery and receiving

[0918] Step 1:

[0919] The user (food provider) opens the request list screen and checks the detailed information of each request, including the quantity of food requested, user information, and delivery address.

[0920] Step 2:

[0921] The user (food provider) arranges delivery. Specifically, they contact the delivery company and coordinate the delivery date and destination.

[0922] Step 3:

[0923] The server stores delivery information and pick-up point details in a database, including the name of the delivery company, expected delivery date and time, and the address of the pick-up point.

[0924] Step 4:

[0925] The server notifies the user (general user) by email or app notification, and includes the request ID, delivery information, and pickup point details.

[0926] Step 5:

[0927] The user (general user) receives the food at the designated pickup point. After receiving the food, the user presses the confirmation button to report the receipt to the server.

[0928] By implementing the above steps, food providers can efficiently manage surplus food and provide necessary food to general users. By using this system, it is possible to simultaneously reduce food waste and provide social support.

[0929] Example 1

[0930] Next, a description will be given of Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the headset type terminal 314 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0931] There is a need for a system that can effectively transfer surplus food between food providers and general users, reducing food waste and providing social support. However, existing systems have had problems with inefficient food inventory management, request processing, and delivery and pickup coordination. Furthermore, there is no system that consistently handles these processes, making it difficult to improve the user experience.

[0932] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the first embodiment is realized by the following means.

[0933] In this invention, the server includes a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for storing food inventory information in a database, and a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests. This allows food providers to efficiently input detailed information about surplus food, and general users to easily request the food they need. Furthermore, consistent updates to inventory management and notifications of delivery information enable an efficient food delivery process, reducing food waste and supporting society.

[0934] "Food provider" refers to a business or organization that provides surplus food.

[0935] "Surplus food" refers to food provided by donors that is nearing its expiration date or best-before date, or that is in excess stock.

[0936] "General users" refer to consumers and individuals who use the system to search for surplus food and request the food they need.

[0937] "Database" refers to an information storage system for centrally managing food inventory information, request information, delivery information, etc.

[0938] "Inventory information" refers to detailed data stored in a database, such as the type, quantity, and expiration date of the food offered.

[0939] "Request" refers to a request sent by a general user to a provider through the system, specifying the quantity of food required.

[0940] "Delivery Information" means the details of how the provided food will be delivered to the designated pick-up point.

[0941] "Pickup Point" means a location designated for a Consumer to actually pick up the requested Food.

[0942] "Notifications" refers to messages the system sends to users informing them of food requests, delivery status, pickup location information, etc.

[0943] "Authentication" refers to the verification methods, such as user ID and password, used when food providers log in to the system.

[0944] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0945] This invention is a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and store it in a database, allowing general users to search that information and request the food they need. This system is designed to efficiently transfer food between food providers and general users, achieving both food waste reduction and social support.

[0946] The system is implemented using the following hardware and software:

[0947] Hardware and Software Examples

[0948] Server: A central processing computer that uses web server software such as Apache Tomcat.

[0949] Database: We use relational database management systems such as MySQL to centrally manage food inventory information, request information, delivery information, etc.

[0950] Client terminal: A device used by food providers and general users to access the system, using a web browser (e.g., Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox).

[0951] System Operation

[0952] 1. Food provider login and food information registration

[0953] The user (food provider) accesses the system from a web browser on a client terminal and logs in using authentication methods (user ID, password). The server verifies the authentication information, and if authentication is successful, displays a dashboard to the user. The food provider enters detailed information about the surplus food (food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.) into the "food registration form" and clicks the submit button. The server stores this information in a database.

[0954] 2. Display of surplus food list and requests from the public

[0955] The terminal (general user) accesses the system using a web browser and displays a list of surplus food. The server retrieves current surplus food information from the database and sends it to the client terminal. The general user selects the food they need from the list, enters the requested quantity, and clicks the send button. The server checks the inventory based on the received request information.

[0956] 3. Server processes request and updates inventory

[0957] The server checks the inventory of the requested food, and if the required quantity is available, updates the inventory quantity and saves the request information in the database. After the request is successfully processed, the server sends a notification to the general user that the processing is complete.

[0958] 4. Delivery and Pickup Coordination

[0959] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the information of the delivery company and pick-up location in a database and notifies the general user. The general user checks the notification and picks up the food at the specified pick-up location.

[0960] Specific examples

[0961] For example, consider a scenario in which a food provider from a bakery logs in and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a two-day expiration date. The server saves this information in a database. A general user then searches for "surplus bread" in the system, selects 10 loaves from the list, and submits a request. The server checks the inventory, subtracts 10 loaves from the inventory, and saves the request information in the database. The food provider prepares delivery based on the request information, and the server notifies the general user of the delivery information. The general user then picks up the 10 loaves at the notified pickup point.

[0962] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0963] Please provide detailed steps and sample code for the system for food providers and general users. In this system, food providers enter details about surplus food, general users search and request that information, and the food provider receives the request and coordinates delivery and pickup. Please explain the specific process for each step, including sample code.

[0964] In this way, the present invention achieves both food waste reduction and social support by enabling efficient interaction between food providers and general users and smooth transfer of surplus food.

[0965] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0966] Step 1: Food Provider Login and Authentication

[0967] The user (food provider) accesses the system from the web browser on the client terminal, enters the user ID and password, and clicks the login button.

[0968] The server receives the authentication information (user ID and password) sent by the user and compares it with the registered information in the database. If authentication is successful, the dashboard screen is displayed to the user.

[0969] Input: User ID and password

[0970] Data calculation: Retrieve user information from the database and compare it with the entered authentication information

[0971] Output: If authentication is successful, the dashboard screen is output. If authentication fails, an error message is output.

[0972] Step 2: Register food information

[0973] The user (food provider) enters detailed information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category into the "Food Registration Form" on the dashboard and clicks the submit button.

[0974] The server receives the entered food information and saves it in the database. If the save is successful, it outputs a "Registration Complete" message to the user.

[0975] Input: Food details such as food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.

[0976] Data calculation: Entered food information is saved in a database

[0977] Output: Outputs a registration completion message

[0978] Step 3: Display the surplus food list

[0979] The terminal (general user) accesses the system using a web browser and opens a screen displaying a list of surplus food.

[0980] The server retrieves information on current surplus food from the database and sends it to the terminal to display the list.

[0981] Input: None (screen access by general users only)

[0982] Data calculation: Obtaining surplus food information from the database

[0983] Output: Display the surplus food list on the user's device

[0984] Step 4: Request surplus food

[0985] The user (general user) selects the food item they need from the displayed list of surplus food items, enters the requested quantity, and clicks the send button.

[0986] The server checks the stock based on the received request information, and if there is sufficient stock, it saves the request information in the database and outputs a request processing completion message to the user.

[0987] Input: Type and quantity of food you would like to request

[0988] Data calculation: Retrieve inventory information from the database, check and update inventory, and save request information.

[0989] Output: A message is displayed to the user indicating that the request has been processed.

[0990] Step 5: Prepare and notify delivery

[0991] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. They input information about the delivery company and the pick-up location into the system.

[0992] The server stores the entered delivery information and pick-up location information in a database and notifies the general user.

[0993] Input: Delivery company and pickup location information

[0994] Data calculation: Delivery information and pick-up location information are stored in a database

[0995] Output: Send notification message to general users

[0996] Step 6: Pick up your food

[0997] The user (general user) receives a notification from the server and visits the designated pick-up location to pick up the food.

[0998] Input: Notified pick-up location information

[0999] Data calculation: None (user receiving action)

[1000] Output: None (user receives food directly)

[1001] These steps ensure consistent processing throughout the system, enabling smooth delivery of food between food providers and general users.

[1002] (Application example 1)

[1003] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the headset type terminal 314 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1004] The present invention aims to reduce food waste and realize social support by providing a system that can efficiently deliver surplus food that food providers would otherwise have to discard to users who need it. Another challenge is to create a system that allows users to easily obtain surplus food, in line with today's busy lifestyles.

[1005] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 1 is realized by the following means.

[1006] In this invention, the server includes a means for a food provider to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for saving surplus food inventory information in a database, a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests for it, a means for updating food inventory and saving the request information, a means for saving delivery information and pickup point information and notifying the user, a means for users to input the quantity of food requested, and a means for efficiently receiving food in cooperation with a food delivery service. This enables food providers to effectively manage surplus food and quickly deliver it to users who need it while reducing food waste.

[1007] "Food provider" refers to a company or individual that provides surplus food and is responsible for entering detailed information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category into the system.

[1008] "Surplus food" is food that is not being sold due to an approaching expiration date or low demand, and is subject to registration by food providers in the system.

[1009] "Inventory information" is data stored in a database that includes detailed information such as the type, quantity, and expiration date of surplus food.

[1010] "General users" refer to consumers who access the system to search for surplus food and submit requests as needed.

[1011] "Search means" refers to the function or interface that allows general users to search within the system for detailed information about surplus food.

[1012] "Request means" refers to the function that enables general users to request the quantity and type of surplus food they need from the system.

[1013] "Delivery Information" refers to data that includes details such as delivery method, delivery company, and pickup point for the requested surplus food.

[1014] "Pick-up Point" means a designated location for the public to pick up their requested surplus food items.

[1015] "User notification means" refers to a function within the system for informing users of delivery information and pickup point information.

[1016] "Quantity input means" refers to a function that allows a user to input the quantity of food that they wish to request into the system.

[1017] Collaboration with "food delivery services" refers to the collaboration function that enables the system to share information with food delivery companies and realize efficient delivery and collection of food.

[1018] The present invention provides a system for efficiently transferring surplus food from food providers to general users. This system implements a series of processes: food providers input and save detailed information about surplus food, general users search that information, request the food they need, and coordinate the transfer.

[1019] System Configuration

[1020] The system includes the following major components:

[1021] 1. Food provider terminal

[1022] This terminal provides a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food (food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.) via a web browser or smartphone app.

[1023] Software used: React Native (for smartphone apps), web browser (for PCs)

[1024] 2. Database Server

[1025] The server stores the information about surplus food sent by food providers in a database.

[1026] Software used: PostgreSQL (database management system)

[1027] 3. Backend Server

[1028] The server provides the functionality to search for and accept requests for surplus food and update inventory information.

[1029] Software used: Node.js and Express.js (backend framework)

[1030] 4. General User Devices

[1031] The terminal allows users to search the list of surplus food items and request the food they need via a web browser or smartphone app, and also allows them to input and submit the requested food quantity.

[1032] Software used: React Native (for smartphone apps), web browser (for PCs)

[1033] 5. Notification System

[1034] Provide means to notify users of delivery information and pickup point information, including in-app notifications, emails, SMS, etc.

[1035] Software used: Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) or similar notification service

[1036] 6. Delivery service collaboration

[1037] Work with food delivery services to efficiently deliver requested surplus food to designated pickup points.

[1038] Delivery method: API integration, integration with third-party delivery services

[1039] Example of operation

[1040] 1. Food Provider Operations

[1041] Food suppliers log in to the system from their terminals and enter detailed information about their surplus food. The information entered is then stored in the database server.

[1042] 2. General User Operations

[1043] A general user accesses the system from a terminal, searches the list of surplus food, selects the food they need from the list, specifies the quantity, and submits a request.

[1044] 3. Notification and Receipt

[1045] The server checks the inventory based on the request, and if the inventory is available, updates the request information. The delivery information and pickup point information are then notified to the general user. The general user can then pick up the food at the specified pickup point.

[1046] Examples of prompt statements

[1047] Prompt: "Build an app that displays a list of surplus food items registered by food providers and allows users to request the food they want. The food registration should include information such as food name, expiration date, quantity, and category, and it should also handle inventory management and request processing."

[1048] This will enable food providers to effectively manage surplus food, reduce food waste, and provide food to the general public quickly and efficiently.

[1049] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1050] Step 1:

[1051] A food supplier logs into the system from a terminal. The terminal receives user authentication information (user name, password) as input and sends it to the server. The server compares the authentication information in the database and outputs the authentication result (login success or failure).

[1052] Step 2:

[1053] Food providers who have been successfully authenticated enter detailed information about the surplus food (food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.) into a terminal. The entered information is converted into a data format on the terminal and sent to the server. The server stores this information in a database.

[1054] Step 3:

[1055] A general user accesses the system from a terminal and displays a list of surplus food. The terminal sends a request for the food list to the server. The server retrieves the list of surplus food from the database and sends it to the terminal. The terminal displays the retrieved information to the user.

[1056] Step 4:

[1057] A user selects the food item they need from the list, specifies the requested quantity, and sends it from their terminal. The terminal then sends this request information to the server. The server updates the inventory information in the database and saves the request information.

[1058] Step 5:

[1059] The server generates delivery information and pickup point information based on the request and notifies the user. The server obtains the delivery information in cooperation with the delivery service and sends a notification to the user's terminal. The terminal displays the notification information to the user.

[1060] Step 6:

[1061] A general user picks up food at a designated pickup point. The user confirms the completion of the pickup on the terminal and sends it to the server. The server saves the pickup information in a database and completes the process.

[1062] This will enable food providers to manage surplus food and enable general users to quickly obtain the food they need.

[1063] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotion may be further combined. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may estimate the user's emotion using the emotion identification model 59, and perform identification processing using the user's emotion.

[1064] This invention combines a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and allows general users to search and request that information with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. This system can make personalized food suggestions based on the user's emotions and adjust the priority of requests. The aim of this combination is to reduce food waste and maximize the effectiveness of social support.

[1065] Work content and system processing

[1066] Food registration for food providers

[1067] Users (food providers) log in to the system and enter detailed information about their surplus food, including the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category. The server receives this information and stores it in a database. This process ensures that the data on the surplus food provided is accurately registered in the system.

[1068] Matching surplus food demand

[1069] The terminal (general user) logs in to the system and opens the food search screen. The user enters search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.) and presses the search button. The server searches the database and displays a list of surplus foods that match the criteria on the terminal. The user selects the desired food from the list. For the selected food, the user enters the requested quantity and presses the request button. The server receives the request and checks the inventory. If there is sufficient inventory, it updates the inventory and saves the request information.

[1070] Coordinating delivery and receiving

[1071] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the information of the delivery company and pickup point in a database and notifies the user. This notification allows the user (general user) to receive the food at the specified pickup point.

[1072] Additional features of the Emotion Engine

[1073] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and makes personalized food recommendations based on those emotions. For example, if a user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have the effect of reducing stress. The emotion engine can also analyze the user's emotion data and adjust the priority of requests based on the results. For example, a request from a user who is in a very difficult situation can be given a higher priority.

[1074] Specific examples

[1075] Scenario 1: Donating surplus bread and using the emotion engine

[1076] 1. A user (baker) logs into the system and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of 2 days. The server stores this information in the database.

[1077] 2. The terminal (general user) searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and sends a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[1078] 3. The user (bakery) checks the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user (general user).

[1079] 4. The user (general user) receives the bread at the designated pickup point.

[1080] 5. The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. If the analysis shows that the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect to the user.

[1081] The present invention aims to reduce food waste and provide social support at a high level by streamlining the management and provision of surplus food by food providers and enabling personalized suggestions based on user emotions.

[1082] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1083] Processing flow

[1084] Food Registration Steps

[1085] Step 1:

[1086] The user (food provider) logs in to the system. The user enters their user ID and password on the login screen and presses the login button.

[1087] Step 2:

[1088] The server authenticates the user by checking the entered user ID and password against the authentication information in the database. If authentication is successful, the user proceeds to the food registration screen.

[1089] Step 3:

[1090] The user (food provider) enters detailed information about the surplus food, such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category, and then presses the register button.

[1091] Step 4:

[1092] The server receives the entered surplus food information and stores it in a database, where the format and consistency of the information is checked.

[1093] Steps for matching surplus food with demand

[1094] Step 1:

[1095] The terminal (general user) accesses the system and opens the food search screen. The user enters search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.) and presses the search button.

[1096] Step 2:

[1097] The server searches the database and displays a list of surplus food items that match the criteria on the terminal, from which the user can select the food items they need.

[1098] Step 3:

[1099] The user (general user) enters the requested amount and presses the request button. The request details include the request ID, user ID, food ID, requested amount, etc.

[1100] Step 4:

[1101] The server receives the request and checks the inventory information in its database to ensure that the requested food item is in sufficient stock.

[1102] Step 5:

[1103] The server updates the inventory and saves the request information in the database. The inventory is reduced by the requested amount and the request information is registered as a new record.

[1104] Steps for coordinating delivery and receiving

[1105] Step 1:

[1106] The user (food provider) opens the request list screen and checks the detailed information of each request, including the quantity of food requested, user information, and delivery address.

[1107] Step 2:

[1108] The user (food provider) arranges delivery. Specifically, they contact the delivery company and coordinate the delivery date and destination.

[1109] Step 3:

[1110] The server stores delivery information and pick-up point details in a database, including the name of the delivery company, expected delivery date and time, and the address of the pick-up point.

[1111] Step 4:

[1112] The server notifies the user (general user) by email or app notification, and includes the request ID, delivery information, and pickup point details.

[1113] Step 5:

[1114] The user (general user) receives the food at the designated pickup point. After receiving the food, the user presses the confirmation button to report the receipt to the server.

[1115] Steps in the functioning of the Emotion Engine

[1116] Step 1:

[1117] A terminal (general user) logs in to the system, and the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions. Emotion recognition is achieved by using methods such as questionnaire entries by the user and facial recognition.

[1118] Step 2:

[1119] The server analyzes the recognized emotion data and stores the results in a database. Based on the analysis results, the user's emotional state is recorded.

[1120] Step 3:

[1121] The server uses the emotion data to make personalized food suggestions, for example, if the user is feeling stressed, it will suggest foods that have stress-reducing effects.

[1122] Step 4:

[1123] The user (general user) checks the suggested food items and makes a request. The server processes this request in the same way as a normal request.

[1124] Step 5:

[1125] The server adjusts the priority of requests based on the user's emotional data, for example, giving a high priority to a request from a user who is in a very difficult situation.

[1126] Specific examples

[1127] Scenario 1: Donating surplus bread and using the emotion engine

[1128] 1. A user (baker) logs into the system and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of 2 days. The server stores this information in the database.

[1129] 2. The terminal (general user) searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and sends a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[1130] 3. The user (bakery) checks the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user (general user).

[1131] 4. The user (general user) receives the bread at the designated pickup point.

[1132] 5. The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. If the analysis shows that the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect to the user.

[1133] The present invention aims to reduce food waste and provide social support at a high level by streamlining the management and provision of surplus food by food providers and enabling personalized suggestions based on user emotions.

[1134] Example 2

[1135] Next, a description will be given of Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the headset type terminal 314 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1136] This invention aims to solve the problem of reducing food waste and maximizing the effectiveness of social support by efficiently managing the provision and consumption of surplus food and by making personalized food suggestions based on the user's emotional state in a system where food providers can enter detailed information about surplus food and general users can search and request that information.

[1137] The identification process by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for a food provider to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for saving surplus food inventory information in a database, a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests, a means for updating food inventory and saving request information, a means for saving delivery information and pickup point information and notifying the user, and an emotion recognition means for recognizing the user's emotions and making personalized food suggestions. This not only improves the efficiency of surplus food management and provision, but also enables suggestions based on the user's emotional state, maximizing the effects of food waste reduction and social support.

[1138] "Food Provider" means an entity that inputs and manages details of surplus food into the system.

[1139] "Surplus food" refers to food that is nearing its expiration date or that is in excess supply due to a lack of demand.

[1140] "Detailed information" refers to specific data about surplus food, such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category.

[1141] A "general user" is someone who can use the system to search for surplus food and submit requests.

[1142] "Database" refers to a storage system for storing and managing food information and request information within the system.

[1143] "Search" is the act of locating information in a database based on entered criteria.

[1144] A "request" is an action in which a general user specifies the food they need and makes a request to the system.

[1145] "Inventory update" is an operation that increases or decreases the number of food items in stock according to a request.

[1146] "Delivery Information" means detailed information about where and how the requested food will be collected.

[1147] "Pickup Point" means a specific location where a public user can pick up their requested food.

[1148] "Emotion recognition means" is a technology for analyzing and recognizing the user's emotional state.

[1149] "Personalized food suggestions" refers to the act of recommending specific foods based on a user's emotional state and preferences.

[1150] This invention is a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food, and allows general users to search and request that information. Furthermore, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions, the system makes personalized food suggestions based on the user's emotions and adjusts the priority of requests. The system aims to reduce food waste and maximize the effectiveness of social support.

[1151] Hardware and Software Description

[1152] (Hardware)

[1153] PC: The basic device for food service providers and general users to access the system.

[1154] Tablets: Highly portable devices that make it easy to enter and review data in the field.

[1155] Smartphone: A device that is easily portable and allows users to access the system wherever they are.

[1156] (software)

[1157] Web Browser: The software that a User uses to access the System and enter, search, and request food information.

[1158] Food registration form: An interface for food providers to enter details of their surplus food.

[1159] Database management system: A system for storing and managing information on surplus food, requests, delivery information, etc.

[1160] Search engine: A function that allows the general public to search for surplus food.

[1161] Notification system: Software used to notify users of delivery and pick-up point information.

[1162] Emotion recognition software: Software that analyzes the emotions of ordinary users and makes personalized suggestions.

[1163] Data analysis tool: A tool for analyzing user behavioral data and input data and providing feedback to the emotion engine.

[1164] Suggestion algorithm: An algorithm to suggest the best food for the user based on the emotion recognition results.

[1165] Specific examples

[1166] 1. Food registration for food providers

[1167] The user (food provider) opens a web browser on their PC and accesses the system from the login screen. After logging in, they enter detailed information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category into the food registration form and send it to the server. The server stores the received information in a database.

[1168] 2. Matching surplus food to demand

[1169] The terminal (general user) opens a web browser on their smartphone and logs in to the system. They enter search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date) on the food search screen and press the search button. The server retrieves a list of surplus food items that match the criteria from the database and returns it to the terminal. The user selects the food items they need from the list and submits a request. The server checks the inventory and saves the request information in the database.

[1170] 3. Delivery and Pickup Coordination

[1171] The user (food provider) logs in to the system again and checks the request information. They prepare the necessary food, enter the delivery information, and send it to the server. The server saves the delivery information in a database and notifies the general user. The user (general user) receives the notification and picks up the food at the designated pickup point.

[1172] 4. Additional features of the emotion engine

[1173] The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again using a smartphone, and the emotion recognition software analyzes the user's emotions. Based on the analysis results, the emotion engine suggests foods that have a stress-reducing effect if the user is feeling stressed. It also accumulates the user's emotional state and adjusts the priority of requests.

[1174] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1175] Please write a "Requirements Specification for adding new features to the Surplus Food Management System." Please include the following:

[1176] 1. Detailed operating procedures for food registration by food suppliers and the software and hardware to be used

[1177] 2. Flow of surplus food demand matching and involved entities (users, terminals, servers)

[1178] 3. Delivery and receipt coordination flow, systems used, and entities involved

[1179] 4. Explanation of additional features of the emotion engine, emotion recognition method, and details of the proposed algorithm

[1180] This will enable the system to strengthen cooperation between food providers and general users, contributing to reducing food waste throughout society.

[1181] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1182] Step 1:

[1183] A user logs into the system

[1184] Input: Username, Password

[1185] Specific operation: The user (food provider) enters their username and password into the login form on the web browser and clicks the login button.

[1186] Data calculation and output: The server checks the entered username and password against the authentication database, and if they match, the authentication is successful and the user is redirected to the dashboard. If they do not match, an error message is displayed.

[1187] Step 2:

[1188] Fill in your details on the food registration form

[1189] Input: Food name, expiration date, quantity, category

[1190] Specific operation: The user (food provider) enters detailed information about surplus food into the food registration form on the dashboard and clicks the registration button.

[1191] Data processing and output: The server converts the input information into JSON format, generates an SQL query to store it in the database, executes the query, and displays a registration success message to the user.

[1192] Step 3:

[1193] Open the food search screen and enter your search criteria

[1194] Input: Category, Best Before Date, Quantity

[1195] Specific operation: The terminal (general user) opens the food search screen on a web browser, enters search criteria, and clicks the search button.

[1196] Data calculation and output: The server receives the entered search criteria, executes a search query against the database, and returns the resulting list of surplus food to the terminal and displays it as a search result.

[1197] Step 4:

[1198] The user selects the food they need and submits the request information

[1199] Input: Food list, Request quantity

[1200] Specific operation: The user (general user) selects the food item they need from the search results list, enters the requested quantity, and clicks the request button.

[1201] Data calculation and output: The server receives the request information and checks the inventory. If there is enough inventory, it reduces the inventory and saves the request information in the database. Once the saving is complete, it displays a request success message to the user.

[1202] Step 5:

[1203] The user confirms the request information and prepares for delivery

[1204] Input: Request information

[1205] Specific operation: The user (food provider) logs in to the system, checks the request information, and prepares the requested food. Once preparation is complete, the user enters delivery information and clicks the delivery button.

[1206] Data calculation and output: The server saves the entered delivery information in a database and displays a delivery preparation completion message to the user.

[1207] Step 6:

[1208] Notifying general users of delivery information

[1209] Input:Shipping information

[1210] Specific operation: The server sends a notification to the general user based on the delivery information, including details of the delivery date and time and pick-up point.

[1211] Data calculation and output: The server identifies the user ID based on the delivery information and sends a notification to the corresponding user's contact information. If the notification is sent successfully, a notification sending completion message is displayed on the management screen.

[1212] Step 7:

[1213] The user receives the food at the designated pickup point.

[1214] Input: Notification content

[1215] Specific operation: The user (general user) receives a notification and goes to the specified date and time and pickup point to pick up the food.

[1216] Data Calculation and Output: Server side processing is not included here, but the user follows a verification procedure when receiving the food from the logistics company or the staff at the pick-up point.

[1217] Step 8:

[1218] Emotion engine analyzes user emotions and makes personalized suggestions

[1219] Input: User behavior data, input data

[1220] Specific operation: The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine collects the user's past behavioral data and input data.

[1221] Data calculation and output: The server uses emotion recognition software to analyze the collected data and recognize the user's emotional state (e.g., stress level). The recommendation algorithm then selects the most suitable foods and notifies the user with personalized suggestions. The suggestions are displayed to the user on their device.

[1222] (Application example 2)

[1223] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the headset type terminal 314 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1224] There is a need for a system that can efficiently manage and provide surplus food from food providers while also making personalized suggestions to general users. In particular, it is important to improve user satisfaction and reduce food waste by making suggestions that take user emotions into consideration. However, current systems have difficulty making flexible suggestions that take user emotions into consideration. Another challenge is efficiently matching surplus food demand and managing delivery information.

[1225] The identification processing by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for a food provider to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for saving surplus food inventory information in a database, a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests, a means for updating food inventory and saving request information, a means for saving delivery information and pickup point information and notifying the user, and a means for analyzing user emotions using an emotion engine as a personalized suggestion means and making food suggestions based on the emotions. This enables food providers to efficiently manage and provide surplus food and make personalized suggestions based on the user's emotions.

[1226] Key word definitions

[1227] "Food providers" refers to companies and individuals that provide food at restaurants, supermarkets, markets, etc.

[1228] "Surplus food" refers to food that was expected to be sold or consumed but was not used within the specified time frame.

[1229] "Detailed information" refers to specific information about the item, such as the food's name, expiration date, quantity, and category.

[1230] "Database" refers to a system for storing and managing surplus food inventory information and user request information.

[1231] "General users" refer to consumers who are eligible to receive surplus food.

[1232] "Search tools" refers to a function that allows general users to search for information about surplus food based on certain criteria.

[1233] "Request method" refers to the operations or functions that general users use to request the provision of surplus food selected by them.

[1234] "Inventory update means" refers to a function for updating surplus food inventory information to the latest state after a request is sent.

[1235] "Delivery information" refers to information about the logistics of surplus food until it is delivered.

[1236] "Pick-up point" refers to a designated location for the public to pick up surplus food.

[1237] "Notification means" refers to the function for communicating delivery information and pickup point information to general users.

[1238] An "emotion engine" refers to a system for analyzing user emotions.

[1239] "Personalized suggestion means" refers to a function that uses an emotion engine to suggest food based on the user's emotions.

[1240] A "generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence model that generates specific results based on user-entered data.

[1241] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[1242] This invention combines a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and allows general users to search and request that information with an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions. The system consists of the following main components:

[1243] Food registration for food providers

[1244] The server provides a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food. For example, information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category is entered and saved in a database. This ensures that the data on the surplus food provided is accurately registered in the system. This data entry is done via a web browser or smartphone application.

[1245] Matching surplus food demand

[1246] Ordinary users log in to the system using a smartphone application or web interface and search for surplus food. After entering search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.), the server searches the database and displays a list of surplus food that matches the criteria. The user selects the food they need from the list and submits a request. The server receives the request, checks inventory information, updates the inventory, and saves the request information in the database.

[1247] Coordinating delivery and receiving

[1248] The food provider confirms the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the delivery information and pickup point information in a database and notifies the user. The user can then pick up the food at the designated pickup point. Notifications are usually sent via email or in-app notifications.

[1249] Additional features of the Emotion Engine

[1250] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and makes personalized food suggestions based on those emotions. The server analyzes the emotion data entered by the user using a generative AI model. Based on the analysis results, personalized suggestions are made. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have the effect of reducing stress. The server can also analyze the user's emotion data and adjust the priority of requests based on the results. For example, a request from a user who is in a very difficult situation can be given a higher priority.

[1251] Specific examples

[1252] Donating surplus bread and using the emotion engine

[1253] 1. The user (food provider) enters the details of 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of two days into the system and stores it in the database.

[1254] 2. A general user searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and submits a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[1255] 3. The food provider confirms the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user.

[1256] 4. Public users will collect their bread at designated pick-up points.

[1257] 5. The user logs in again to the system, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. If the user is found to be feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect to the user.

[1258] Examples of prompt statements

[1259] "In one word, describe how you've been feeling lately. Write down what you're feeling right now."

[1260] Hardware / Software Used

[1261] Server: Use cloud services such as AWS or Google Cloud.

[1262] Database: Manage food information and request information using MySQL, PostgreSQL, etc.

[1263] Sentiment engine: Use sentiment analysis services such as IBM Watson and Microsoft Azure Cognitive Services.

[1264] Smartphone application: Develop as an application for iOS or Android.

[1265] In this way, the present invention will realize a high level of food waste reduction and social support by streamlining the management and provision of surplus food by food providers and enabling personalized suggestions based on user emotions.

[1266] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1267] System program processing flow

[1268] Details of each processing step

[1269] Step 1:

[1270] The server provides an interface for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food. Food providers input detailed information such as the food's name, expiration date, quantity, and category. This input data is received by the server and stored in a database. Input: Food name, expiration date, quantity, category. Output: Registered surplus food data.

[1271] Step 2:

[1272] A general user logs in to the system using a terminal and opens the food search screen. The general user enters search criteria such as category and expiration date, and presses the search button. The server searches the database and retrieves a list of surplus food that matches the search criteria. Input: Search criteria (category, expiration date, etc.). Output: List of matching surplus food.

[1273] Step 3:

[1274] A general user selects the food item they need from the search results, enters the requested quantity, and presses the request button. The server receives the request information and checks the stock information in the database. If there is sufficient stock, the server reduces the stock and saves the request information. Input: Requested food item and requested quantity. Output: Updated stock information and saved request information.

[1275] Step 4:

[1276] The food provider uses the terminal to check the request information. The server provides the food provider with the request information and corresponding inventory information. The food provider prepares for delivery. The server saves the delivery information and pickup point information in a database and notifies the general user. Input: Request information. Output: Delivery information and pickup point notification.

[1277] Step 5:

[1278] The general user picks up the food at the designated pickup point. At this time, the server performs a receipt confirmation process for the general user and stores the receipt information in the database. Input: Receipt confirmation by the general user. Output: Stored receipt information.

[1279] Step 6:

[1280] A regular user logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. The user enters text that expresses their recent emotions, and the server sends that text to the generative AI model. The generative AI model performs emotion analysis and sends the results back to the server. Input: User's emotion text. Output: Analyzed emotion data.

[1281] Step 7:

[1282] The server's emotion engine makes food recommendations suitable for the user based on the analyzed emotion data. For example, for a user who is feeling stressed, it will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect. This recommendation information is notified to the general user. Input: Analyzed emotion data. Output: Notification of food recommendations based on emotion.

[1283] Examples of prompt statements

[1284] "In one word, describe how you've been feeling lately. Write down what you're feeling right now."

[1285] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the headset type terminal 314. In the headset type terminal 314, the control unit 46A causes the speaker 240 and the display 343 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 238 acquires audio indicating a user input regarding the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits audio data indicating the user input acquired by the microphone 238 to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.

[1286] The data generation model 58 is a so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). An example of the data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (Internet Search<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> ), Gemini (Internet search <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">) and other generation AIs. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. A prompt including an instruction is input to the data generation model 58, and inference data such as voice data indicating voice, text data indicating text, and image data indicating an image is also input. The data generation model 58 performs inference on the input inference data in accordance with the instruction indicated by the prompt, and outputs the inference result in a data format such as voice data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.

[1287] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the specific processing is performed by the data processing device 12, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific processing may be performed by the headset type terminal 314.

[1288] [Fourth embodiment]

[1289] FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.

[1290] 7, a data processing system 410 includes a data processing device 12 and a robot 414. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[1291] The data processing device 12 includes a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication I / F 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The computer 22 includes a processor 28, a RAM 30, and a storage 32. The processor 28, the RAM 30, and the storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication I / F 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication I / F 26 is connected to a network 54. Examples of the network 54 include a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[1292] The robot 414 includes a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, a communication I / F 44, and a control target 443. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, a RAM 48, and a storage 50. The processor 46, the RAM 48, and the storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, the speaker 240, the camera 42, and the control target 443 are also connected to the bus 52.

[1293] The microphone 238 receives instructions and the like from the user 20 by receiving voice uttered by the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice uttered by the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio in accordance with instructions from the processor 46.

[1294] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the surroundings of user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by an angle of view equivalent to the field of vision of a typical healthy person).

[1295] The communication I / F 44 is connected to a network 54. The communication I / Fs 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 via the network 54. The exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 using the communication I / Fs 44 and 26 is carried out in a secure state.

[1296] The control object 443 includes a display device, LEDs in the eyes, and motors for driving the arms, hands, and feet. The posture and gestures of the robot 414 are controlled by controlling the motors of the arms, hands, and feet. Some of the emotions of the robot 414 can be expressed by controlling these motors. In addition, the facial expressions of the robot 414 can also be expressed by controlling the light emission state of the LEDs in the eyes of the robot 414.

[1297] Fig. 8 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the robot 414. As shown in Fig. 8, in the data processing device 12, a specific process is performed by the processor 28. A specific process program 56 is stored in the storage 32.

[1298] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.

[1299] The storage 32 stores a data generation model 58 and an emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.

[1300] In the robot 414, the processor 46 performs the reception output process. A reception output program 60 is stored in the storage 50. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output process is realized by the processor 46 operating as the control unit 46A in accordance with the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.

[1301] Next, a description will be given of the specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1302] This invention is a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and store it in a database, allowing general users to search that information and request the food they need. This system is designed to efficiently transfer food between food providers and general users, achieving both food waste reduction and social support.

[1303] System Program

[1304] Food registration for food providers

[1305] Users (food providers) log into the system and enter detailed information about their surplus food, including the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category. The server receives this information and stores it in a database. At this stage, food providers can review and modify the information they entered.

[1306] Matching surplus food demand

[1307] A terminal (general user) accesses the system and displays a list of surplus food currently being offered. The user (general user) selects the food item they need from the list, enters the requested quantity, and submits it. The server that receives this request checks the inventory of the requested food item, updates the inventory if the required quantity is available, and saves the request information in a database.

[1308] Coordinating delivery and receiving

[1309] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the information of the delivery company and pickup point in a database and notifies the user. This notification allows the user (general user) to receive the food at the specified pickup point.

[1310] Specific examples

[1311] Scenario 1: Donating surplus bread

[1312] 1. A user (baker) logs into the system and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of 2 days. The server stores this information in the database.

[1313] 2. The terminal (general user) searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and sends a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[1314] 3. The user (bakery) checks the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user (general user).

[1315] 4. The user (general user) receives the bread at the designated pickup point.

[1316] In this way, the present invention enables the effective management and transfer of surplus food between food providers and general users, thereby simultaneously achieving a reduction in food waste and social support.

[1317] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1318] Processing flow

[1319] Food Registration Steps

[1320] Step 1:

[1321] The user (food provider) logs in to the system. The user enters their user ID and password on the login screen and presses the login button.

[1322] Step 2:

[1323] The server authenticates the user by checking the entered user ID and password against the authentication information in the database. If authentication is successful, the user proceeds to the food registration screen.

[1324] Step 3:

[1325] The user (food provider) enters detailed information about the surplus food, such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category, and then presses the register button.

[1326] Step 4:

[1327] The server receives the entered surplus food information and stores it in a database, where the format and consistency of the information is checked.

[1328] Steps for matching surplus food with demand

[1329] Step 1:

[1330] The terminal (general user) accesses the system and opens the food search screen. The user enters search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.) and presses the search button.

[1331] Step 2:

[1332] The server searches the database and displays a list of surplus food items that match the criteria on the terminal, from which the user can select the food items they need.

[1333] Step 3:

[1334] The user (general user) enters the requested amount and presses the request button. The request details include the request ID, user ID, food ID, requested amount, etc.

[1335] Step 4:

[1336] The server receives the request and checks the inventory information in its database to ensure that the requested food item is in sufficient stock.

[1337] Step 5:

[1338] The server updates the inventory and saves the request information in the database. The inventory is reduced by the requested amount and the request information is registered as a new record.

[1339] Steps for coordinating delivery and receiving

[1340] Step 1:

[1341] The user (food provider) opens the request list screen and checks the detailed information of each request, including the quantity of food requested, user information, and delivery address.

[1342] Step 2:

[1343] The user (food provider) arranges delivery. Specifically, they contact the delivery company and coordinate the delivery date and destination.

[1344] Step 3:

[1345] The server stores delivery information and pick-up point details in a database, including the name of the delivery company, expected delivery date and time, and the address of the pick-up point.

[1346] Step 4:

[1347] The server notifies the user (general user) by email or app notification, and includes the request ID, delivery information, and pickup point details.

[1348] Step 5:

[1349] The user (general user) receives the food at the designated pickup point. After receiving the food, the user presses the confirmation button to report the receipt to the server.

[1350] By implementing the above steps, food providers can efficiently manage surplus food and provide necessary food to general users. By using this system, it is possible to simultaneously reduce food waste and provide social support.

[1351] Example 1

[1352] Next, a description will be given of Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1353] There is a need for a system that can effectively transfer surplus food between food providers and general users, reducing food waste and providing social support. However, existing systems have had problems with inefficient food inventory management, request processing, and delivery and pickup coordination. Furthermore, there is no system that consistently handles these processes, making it difficult to improve the user experience.

[1354] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the first embodiment is realized by the following means.

[1355] In this invention, the server includes a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for storing food inventory information in a database, and a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests. This allows food providers to efficiently input detailed information about surplus food, and general users to easily request the food they need. Furthermore, consistent updates to inventory management and notifications of delivery information enable an efficient food delivery process, reducing food waste and supporting society.

[1356] "Food provider" refers to a business or organization that provides surplus food.

[1357] "Surplus food" refers to food provided by donors that is nearing its expiration date or best-before date, or that is in excess stock.

[1358] "General users" refer to consumers and individuals who use the system to search for surplus food and request the food they need.

[1359] "Database" refers to an information storage system for centrally managing food inventory information, request information, delivery information, etc.

[1360] "Inventory information" refers to detailed data stored in a database, such as the type, quantity, and expiration date of the food offered.

[1361] "Request" refers to a request sent by a general user to a provider through the system, specifying the quantity of food required.

[1362] "Delivery Information" means the details of how the provided food will be delivered to the designated pick-up point.

[1363] "Pickup Point" means a location designated for a Consumer to actually pick up the requested Food.

[1364] "Notifications" refers to messages the system sends to users informing them of food requests, delivery status, pickup location information, etc.

[1365] "Authentication" refers to the verification methods, such as user ID and password, used when food providers log in to the system.

[1366] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[1367] This invention is a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and store it in a database, allowing general users to search that information and request the food they need. This system is designed to efficiently transfer food between food providers and general users, achieving both food waste reduction and social support.

[1368] The system is implemented using the following hardware and software:

[1369] Hardware and Software Examples

[1370] Server: A central processing computer that uses web server software such as Apache Tomcat.

[1371] Database: We use relational database management systems such as MySQL to centrally manage food inventory information, request information, delivery information, etc.

[1372] Client terminal: A device used by food providers and general users to access the system, using a web browser (e.g., Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox).

[1373] System Operation

[1374] 1. Food provider login and food information registration

[1375] The user (food provider) accesses the system from a web browser on a client terminal and logs in using authentication methods (user ID, password). The server verifies the authentication information, and if authentication is successful, displays a dashboard to the user. The food provider enters detailed information about the surplus food (food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.) into the "food registration form" and clicks the submit button. The server stores this information in a database.

[1376] 2. Display of surplus food list and requests from the public

[1377] The terminal (general user) accesses the system using a web browser and displays a list of surplus food. The server retrieves current surplus food information from the database and sends it to the client terminal. The general user selects the food they need from the list, enters the requested quantity, and clicks the send button. The server checks the inventory based on the received request information.

[1378] 3. Server processes request and updates inventory

[1379] The server checks the inventory of the requested food, and if the required quantity is available, updates the inventory quantity and saves the request information in the database. After the request is successfully processed, the server sends a notification to the general user that the processing is complete.

[1380] 4. Delivery and Pickup Coordination

[1381] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the information of the delivery company and pick-up location in a database and notifies the general user. The general user checks the notification and picks up the food at the specified pick-up location.

[1382] Specific examples

[1383] For example, consider a scenario in which a food provider from a bakery logs in and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a two-day expiration date. The server saves this information in a database. A general user then searches for "surplus bread" in the system, selects 10 loaves from the list, and submits a request. The server checks the inventory, subtracts 10 loaves from the inventory, and saves the request information in the database. The food provider prepares delivery based on the request information, and the server notifies the general user of the delivery information. The general user then picks up the 10 loaves at the notified pickup point.

[1384] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1385] Please provide detailed steps and sample code for the system for food providers and general users. In this system, food providers enter details about surplus food, general users search and request that information, and the food provider receives the request and coordinates delivery and pickup. Please explain the specific process for each step, including sample code.

[1386] In this way, the present invention achieves both food waste reduction and social support by enabling efficient interaction between food providers and general users and smooth transfer of surplus food.

[1387] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1388] Step 1: Food Provider Login and Authentication

[1389] The user (food provider) accesses the system from the web browser on the client terminal, enters the user ID and password, and clicks the login button.

[1390] The server receives the authentication information (user ID and password) sent by the user and compares it with the registered information in the database. If authentication is successful, the dashboard screen is displayed to the user.

[1391] Input: User ID and password

[1392] Data calculation: Retrieve user information from the database and compare it with the entered authentication information

[1393] Output: If authentication is successful, the dashboard screen is output. If authentication fails, an error message is output.

[1394] Step 2: Register food information

[1395] The user (food provider) enters detailed information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category into the "Food Registration Form" on the dashboard and clicks the submit button.

[1396] The server receives the entered food information and saves it in the database. If the save is successful, it outputs a "Registration Complete" message to the user.

[1397] Input: Food details such as food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.

[1398] Data calculation: Entered food information is saved in a database

[1399] Output: Outputs a registration completion message

[1400] Step 3: Display the surplus food list

[1401] The terminal (general user) accesses the system using a web browser and opens a screen displaying a list of surplus food.

[1402] The server retrieves information on current surplus food from the database and sends it to the terminal to display the list.

[1403] Input: None (screen access by general users only)

[1404] Data calculation: Obtaining surplus food information from the database

[1405] Output: Display the surplus food list on the user's device

[1406] Step 4: Request surplus food

[1407] The user (general user) selects the food item they need from the displayed list of surplus food items, enters the requested quantity, and clicks the send button.

[1408] The server checks the stock based on the received request information, and if there is sufficient stock, it saves the request information in the database and outputs a request processing completion message to the user.

[1409] Input: Type and quantity of food you would like to request

[1410] Data calculation: Retrieve inventory information from the database, check and update inventory, and save request information.

[1411] Output: A message is displayed to the user indicating that the request has been processed.

[1412] Step 5: Prepare and notify delivery

[1413] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. They input information about the delivery company and the pick-up location into the system.

[1414] The server stores the entered delivery information and pick-up location information in a database and notifies the general user.

[1415] Input: Delivery company and pickup location information

[1416] Data calculation: Delivery information and pick-up location information are stored in a database

[1417] Output: Send notification message to general users

[1418] Step 6: Pick up your food

[1419] The user (general user) receives a notification from the server and visits the designated pick-up location to pick up the food.

[1420] Input: Notified pick-up location information

[1421] Data calculation: None (user receiving action)

[1422] Output: None (user receives food directly)

[1423] These steps ensure consistent processing throughout the system, enabling smooth delivery of food between food providers and general users.

[1424] (Application example 1)

[1425] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1426] The present invention aims to reduce food waste and realize social support by providing a system that can efficiently deliver surplus food that food providers would otherwise have to discard to users who need it. Another challenge is to create a system that allows users to easily obtain surplus food, in line with today's busy lifestyles.

[1427] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 1 is realized by the following means.

[1428] In this invention, the server includes a means for a food provider to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for saving surplus food inventory information in a database, a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests for it, a means for updating food inventory and saving the request information, a means for saving delivery information and pickup point information and notifying the user, a means for users to input the quantity of food requested, and a means for efficiently receiving food in cooperation with a food delivery service. This enables food providers to effectively manage surplus food and quickly deliver it to users who need it while reducing food waste.

[1429] "Food provider" refers to a company or individual that provides surplus food and is responsible for entering detailed information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category into the system.

[1430] "Surplus food" is food that is not being sold due to an approaching expiration date or low demand, and is subject to registration by food providers in the system.

[1431] "Inventory information" is data stored in a database that includes detailed information such as the type, quantity, and expiration date of surplus food.

[1432] "General users" refer to consumers who access the system to search for surplus food and submit requests as needed.

[1433] "Search means" refers to the function or interface that allows general users to search within the system for detailed information about surplus food.

[1434] "Request means" refers to the function that enables general users to request the quantity and type of surplus food they need from the system.

[1435] "Delivery Information" refers to data that includes details such as delivery method, delivery company, and pickup point for the requested surplus food.

[1436] "Pick-up Point" means a designated location for the public to pick up their requested surplus food items.

[1437] "User notification means" refers to a function within the system for informing users of delivery information and pickup point information.

[1438] "Quantity input means" refers to a function that allows a user to input the quantity of food that they wish to request into the system.

[1439] Collaboration with "food delivery services" refers to the collaboration function that enables the system to share information with food delivery companies and realize efficient delivery and collection of food.

[1440] The present invention provides a system for efficiently transferring surplus food from food providers to general users. This system implements a series of processes: food providers input and save detailed information about surplus food, general users search that information, request the food they need, and coordinate the transfer.

[1441] System Configuration

[1442] The system includes the following major components:

[1443] 1. Food provider terminal

[1444] This terminal provides a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food (food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.) via a web browser or smartphone app.

[1445] Software used: React Native (for smartphone apps), web browser (for PCs)

[1446] 2. Database Server

[1447] The server stores the information about surplus food sent by food providers in a database.

[1448] Software used: PostgreSQL (database management system)

[1449] 3. Backend Server

[1450] The server provides the functionality to search for and accept requests for surplus food and update inventory information.

[1451] Software used: Node.js and Express.js (backend framework)

[1452] 4. General User Devices

[1453] The terminal allows users to search the list of surplus food items and request the food they need via a web browser or smartphone app, and also allows them to input and submit the requested food quantity.

[1454] Software used: React Native (for smartphone apps), web browser (for PCs)

[1455] 5. Notification System

[1456] Provide means to notify users of delivery information and pickup point information, including in-app notifications, emails, SMS, etc.

[1457] Software used: Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) or similar notification service

[1458] 6. Delivery service collaboration

[1459] Work with food delivery services to efficiently deliver requested surplus food to designated pickup points.

[1460] Delivery method: API integration, integration with third-party delivery services

[1461] Example of operation

[1462] 1. Food Provider Operations

[1463] Food suppliers log in to the system from their terminals and enter detailed information about their surplus food. The information entered is then stored in the database server.

[1464] 2. General User Operations

[1465] A general user accesses the system from a terminal, searches the list of surplus food, selects the food they need from the list, specifies the quantity, and submits a request.

[1466] 3. Notification and Receipt

[1467] The server checks the inventory based on the request, and if the inventory is available, updates the request information. The delivery information and pickup point information are then notified to the general user. The general user can then pick up the food at the specified pickup point.

[1468] Examples of prompt statements

[1469] Prompt: "Build an app that displays a list of surplus food items registered by food providers and allows users to request the food they want. The food registration should include information such as food name, expiration date, quantity, and category, and it should also handle inventory management and request processing."

[1470] This will enable food providers to effectively manage surplus food, reduce food waste, and provide food to the general public quickly and efficiently.

[1471] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1472] Step 1:

[1473] A food supplier logs into the system from a terminal. The terminal receives user authentication information (user name, password) as input and sends it to the server. The server compares the authentication information in the database and outputs the authentication result (login success or failure).

[1474] Step 2:

[1475] Food providers who have been successfully authenticated enter detailed information about the surplus food (food name, expiration date, quantity, category, etc.) into a terminal. The entered information is converted into a data format on the terminal and sent to the server. The server stores this information in a database.

[1476] Step 3:

[1477] A general user accesses the system from a terminal and displays a list of surplus food. The terminal sends a request for the food list to the server. The server retrieves the list of surplus food from the database and sends it to the terminal. The terminal displays the retrieved information to the user.

[1478] Step 4:

[1479] A user selects the food item they need from the list, specifies the requested quantity, and sends it from their terminal. The terminal then sends this request information to the server. The server updates the inventory information in the database and saves the request information.

[1480] Step 5:

[1481] The server generates delivery information and pickup point information based on the request and notifies the user. The server obtains the delivery information in cooperation with the delivery service and sends a notification to the user's terminal. The terminal displays the notification information to the user.

[1482] Step 6:

[1483] A general user picks up food at a designated pickup point. The user confirms the completion of the pickup on the terminal and sends it to the server. The server saves the pickup information in a database and completes the process.

[1484] This will enable food providers to manage surplus food and enable general users to quickly obtain the food they need.

[1485] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotion may be further combined. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may estimate the user's emotion using the emotion identification model 59, and perform identification processing using the user's emotion.

[1486] This invention combines a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and allows general users to search and request that information with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. This system can make personalized food suggestions based on the user's emotions and adjust the priority of requests. The aim of this combination is to reduce food waste and maximize the effectiveness of social support.

[1487] Work content and system processing

[1488] Food registration for food providers

[1489] Users (food providers) log in to the system and enter detailed information about their surplus food, including the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category. The server receives this information and stores it in a database. This process ensures that the data on the surplus food provided is accurately registered in the system.

[1490] Matching surplus food demand

[1491] The terminal (general user) logs in to the system and opens the food search screen. The user enters search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.) and presses the search button. The server searches the database and displays a list of surplus foods that match the criteria on the terminal. The user selects the desired food from the list. For the selected food, the user enters the requested quantity and presses the request button. The server receives the request and checks the inventory. If there is sufficient inventory, it updates the inventory and saves the request information.

[1492] Coordinating delivery and receiving

[1493] The user (food provider) checks the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the information of the delivery company and pickup point in a database and notifies the user. This notification allows the user (general user) to receive the food at the specified pickup point.

[1494] Additional features of the Emotion Engine

[1495] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and makes personalized food recommendations based on those emotions. For example, if a user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have the effect of reducing stress. The emotion engine can also analyze the user's emotion data and adjust the priority of requests based on the results. For example, a request from a user who is in a very difficult situation can be given a higher priority.

[1496] Specific examples

[1497] Scenario 1: Donating surplus bread and using the emotion engine

[1498] 1. A user (baker) logs into the system and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of 2 days. The server stores this information in the database.

[1499] 2. The terminal (general user) searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and sends a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[1500] 3. The user (bakery) checks the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user (general user).

[1501] 4. The user (general user) receives the bread at the designated pickup point.

[1502] 5. The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. If the analysis shows that the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect to the user.

[1503] The present invention aims to reduce food waste and provide social support at a high level by streamlining the management and provision of surplus food by food providers and enabling personalized suggestions based on user emotions.

[1504] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1505] Processing flow

[1506] Food Registration Steps

[1507] Step 1:

[1508] The user (food provider) logs in to the system. The user enters their user ID and password on the login screen and presses the login button.

[1509] Step 2:

[1510] The server authenticates the user by checking the entered user ID and password against the authentication information in the database. If authentication is successful, the user proceeds to the food registration screen.

[1511] Step 3:

[1512] The user (food provider) enters detailed information about the surplus food, such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category, and then presses the register button.

[1513] Step 4:

[1514] The server receives the entered surplus food information and stores it in a database, where the format and consistency of the information is checked.

[1515] Steps for matching surplus food with demand

[1516] Step 1:

[1517] The terminal (general user) accesses the system and opens the food search screen. The user enters search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.) and presses the search button.

[1518] Step 2:

[1519] The server searches the database and displays a list of surplus food items that match the criteria on the terminal, from which the user can select the food items they need.

[1520] Step 3:

[1521] The user (general user) enters the requested amount and presses the request button. The request details include the request ID, user ID, food ID, requested amount, etc.

[1522] Step 4:

[1523] The server receives the request and checks the inventory information in its database to ensure that the requested food item is in sufficient stock.

[1524] Step 5:

[1525] The server updates the inventory and saves the request information in the database. The inventory is reduced by the requested amount and the request information is registered as a new record.

[1526] Steps for coordinating delivery and receiving

[1527] Step 1:

[1528] The user (food provider) opens the request list screen and checks the detailed information of each request, including the quantity of food requested, user information, and delivery address.

[1529] Step 2:

[1530] The user (food provider) arranges delivery. Specifically, they contact the delivery company and coordinate the delivery date and destination.

[1531] Step 3:

[1532] The server stores delivery information and pick-up point details in a database, including the name of the delivery company, expected delivery date and time, and the address of the pick-up point.

[1533] Step 4:

[1534] The server notifies the user (general user) by email or app notification, and includes the request ID, delivery information, and pickup point details.

[1535] Step 5:

[1536] The user (general user) receives the food at the designated pickup point. After receiving the food, the user presses the confirmation button to report the receipt to the server.

[1537] Steps in the functioning of the Emotion Engine

[1538] Step 1:

[1539] A terminal (general user) logs in to the system, and the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions. Emotion recognition is achieved by using methods such as questionnaire entries by the user and facial recognition.

[1540] Step 2:

[1541] The server analyzes the recognized emotion data and stores the results in a database. Based on the analysis results, the user's emotional state is recorded.

[1542] Step 3:

[1543] The server uses the emotion data to make personalized food suggestions, for example, if the user is feeling stressed, it will suggest foods that have stress-reducing effects.

[1544] Step 4:

[1545] The user (general user) checks the suggested food items and makes a request. The server processes this request in the same way as a normal request.

[1546] Step 5:

[1547] The server adjusts the priority of requests based on the user's emotional data, for example, giving a high priority to a request from a user who is in a very difficult situation.

[1548] Specific examples

[1549] Scenario 1: Donating surplus bread and using the emotion engine

[1550] 1. A user (baker) logs into the system and registers 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of 2 days. The server stores this information in the database.

[1551] 2. The terminal (general user) searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and sends a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[1552] 3. The user (bakery) checks the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user (general user).

[1553] 4. The user (general user) receives the bread at the designated pickup point.

[1554] 5. The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. If the analysis shows that the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect to the user.

[1555] The present invention aims to reduce food waste and provide social support at a high level by streamlining the management and provision of surplus food by food providers and enabling personalized suggestions based on user emotions.

[1556] Example 2

[1557] Next, a description will be given of Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1558] This invention aims to solve the problem of reducing food waste and maximizing the effectiveness of social support by efficiently managing the provision and consumption of surplus food and by making personalized food suggestions based on the user's emotional state in a system where food providers can enter detailed information about surplus food and general users can search and request that information.

[1559] The identification process by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for a food provider to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for saving surplus food inventory information in a database, a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests, a means for updating food inventory and saving request information, a means for saving delivery information and pickup point information and notifying the user, and an emotion recognition means for recognizing the user's emotions and making personalized food suggestions. This not only improves the efficiency of surplus food management and provision, but also enables suggestions based on the user's emotional state, maximizing the effects of food waste reduction and social support.

[1560] "Food Provider" means an entity that inputs and manages details of surplus food into the system.

[1561] "Surplus food" refers to food that is nearing its expiration date or that is in excess supply due to a lack of demand.

[1562] "Detailed information" refers to specific data about surplus food, such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category.

[1563] A "general user" is someone who can use the system to search for surplus food and submit requests.

[1564] "Database" refers to a storage system for storing and managing food information and request information within the system.

[1565] "Search" is the act of locating information in a database based on entered criteria.

[1566] A "request" is an action in which a general user specifies the food they need and makes a request to the system.

[1567] "Inventory update" is an operation that increases or decreases the number of food items in stock according to a request.

[1568] "Delivery Information" means detailed information about where and how the requested food will be collected.

[1569] "Pickup Point" means a specific location where a public user can pick up their requested food.

[1570] "Emotion recognition means" is a technology for analyzing and recognizing the user's emotional state.

[1571] "Personalized food suggestions" refers to the act of recommending specific foods based on a user's emotional state and preferences.

[1572] This invention is a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food, and allows general users to search and request that information. Furthermore, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions, the system makes personalized food suggestions based on the user's emotions and adjusts the priority of requests. The system aims to reduce food waste and maximize the effectiveness of social support.

[1573] Hardware and Software Description

[1574] (Hardware)

[1575] PC: The basic device for food service providers and general users to access the system.

[1576] Tablets: Highly portable devices that make it easy to enter and review data in the field.

[1577] Smartphone: A device that is easily portable and allows users to access the system wherever they are.

[1578] (software)

[1579] Web Browser: The software that a User uses to access the System and enter, search, and request food information.

[1580] Food registration form: An interface for food providers to enter details of their surplus food.

[1581] Database management system: A system for storing and managing information on surplus food, requests, delivery information, etc.

[1582] Search engine: A function that allows the general public to search for surplus food.

[1583] Notification system: Software used to notify users of delivery and pick-up point information.

[1584] Emotion recognition software: Software that analyzes the emotions of ordinary users and makes personalized suggestions.

[1585] Data analysis tool: A tool for analyzing user behavioral data and input data and providing feedback to the emotion engine.

[1586] Suggestion algorithm: An algorithm to suggest the best food for the user based on the emotion recognition results.

[1587] Specific examples

[1588] 1. Food registration for food providers

[1589] The user (food provider) opens a web browser on their PC and accesses the system from the login screen. After logging in, they enter detailed information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category into the food registration form and send it to the server. The server stores the received information in a database.

[1590] 2. Matching surplus food to demand

[1591] The terminal (general user) opens a web browser on their smartphone and logs in to the system. They enter search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date) on the food search screen and press the search button. The server retrieves a list of surplus food items that match the criteria from the database and returns it to the terminal. The user selects the food items they need from the list and submits a request. The server checks the inventory and saves the request information in the database.

[1592] 3. Delivery and Pickup Coordination

[1593] The user (food provider) logs in to the system again and checks the request information. They prepare the necessary food, enter the delivery information, and send it to the server. The server saves the delivery information in a database and notifies the general user. The user (general user) receives the notification and picks up the food at the designated pickup point.

[1594] 4. Additional features of the emotion engine

[1595] The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again using a smartphone, and the emotion recognition software analyzes the user's emotions. Based on the analysis results, the emotion engine suggests foods that have a stress-reducing effect if the user is feeling stressed. It also accumulates the user's emotional state and adjusts the priority of requests.

[1596] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1597] Please write a "Requirements Specification for adding new features to the Surplus Food Management System." Please include the following:

[1598] 1. Detailed operating procedures for food registration by food suppliers and the software and hardware to be used

[1599] 2. Flow of surplus food demand matching and involved entities (users, terminals, servers)

[1600] 3. Delivery and receipt coordination flow, systems used, and entities involved

[1601] 4. Explanation of additional features of the emotion engine, emotion recognition method, and details of the proposed algorithm

[1602] This will enable the system to strengthen cooperation between food providers and general users, contributing to reducing food waste throughout society.

[1603] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1604] Step 1:

[1605] A user logs into the system

[1606] Input: Username, Password

[1607] Specific operation: The user (food provider) enters their username and password into the login form on the web browser and clicks the login button.

[1608] Data calculation and output: The server checks the entered username and password against the authentication database, and if they match, the authentication is successful and the user is redirected to the dashboard. If they do not match, an error message is displayed.

[1609] Step 2:

[1610] Fill in your details on the food registration form

[1611] Input: Food name, expiration date, quantity, category

[1612] Specific operation: The user (food provider) enters detailed information about surplus food into the food registration form on the dashboard and clicks the registration button.

[1613] Data processing and output: The server converts the input information into JSON format, generates an SQL query to store it in the database, executes the query, and displays a registration success message to the user.

[1614] Step 3:

[1615] Open the food search screen and enter your search criteria

[1616] Input: Category, Best Before Date, Quantity

[1617] Specific operation: The terminal (general user) opens the food search screen on a web browser, enters search criteria, and clicks the search button.

[1618] Data calculation and output: The server receives the entered search criteria, executes a search query against the database, and returns the resulting list of surplus food to the terminal and displays it as a search result.

[1619] Step 4:

[1620] The user selects the food they need and submits the request information

[1621] Input: Food list, Request quantity

[1622] Specific operation: The user (general user) selects the food item they need from the search results list, enters the requested quantity, and clicks the request button.

[1623] Data calculation and output: The server receives the request information and checks the inventory. If there is enough inventory, it reduces the inventory and saves the request information in the database. Once the saving is complete, it displays a request success message to the user.

[1624] Step 5:

[1625] The user confirms the request information and prepares for delivery

[1626] Input: Request information

[1627] Specific operation: The user (food provider) logs in to the system, checks the request information, and prepares the requested food. Once preparation is complete, the user enters delivery information and clicks the delivery button.

[1628] Data calculation and output: The server saves the entered delivery information in a database and displays a delivery preparation completion message to the user.

[1629] Step 6:

[1630] Notifying general users of delivery information

[1631] Input:Shipping information

[1632] Specific operation: The server sends a notification to the general user based on the delivery information, including details of the delivery date and time and pick-up point.

[1633] Data calculation and output: The server identifies the user ID based on the delivery information and sends a notification to the corresponding user's contact information. If the notification is sent successfully, a notification sending completion message is displayed on the management screen.

[1634] Step 7:

[1635] The user receives the food at the designated pickup point.

[1636] Input: Notification content

[1637] Specific operation: The user (general user) receives a notification and goes to the specified date and time and pickup point to pick up the food.

[1638] Data Calculation and Output: Server side processing is not included here, but the user follows a verification procedure when receiving the food from the logistics company or the staff at the pick-up point.

[1639] Step 8:

[1640] Emotion engine analyzes user emotions and makes personalized suggestions

[1641] Input: User behavior data, input data

[1642] Specific operation: The terminal (general user) logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine collects the user's past behavioral data and input data.

[1643] Data calculation and output: The server uses emotion recognition software to analyze the collected data and recognize the user's emotional state (e.g., stress level). The recommendation algorithm then selects the most suitable foods and notifies the user with personalized suggestions. The suggestions are displayed to the user on their device.

[1644] (Application example 2)

[1645] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1646] There is a need for a system that can efficiently manage and provide surplus food from food providers while also making personalized suggestions to general users. In particular, it is important to improve user satisfaction and reduce food waste by making suggestions that take user emotions into consideration. However, current systems have difficulty making flexible suggestions that take user emotions into consideration. Another challenge is efficiently matching surplus food demand and managing delivery information.

[1647] The identification processing by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for a food provider to input detailed information about surplus food, a means for saving surplus food inventory information in a database, a means for general users to search for surplus food and send requests, a means for updating food inventory and saving request information, a means for saving delivery information and pickup point information and notifying the user, and a means for analyzing user emotions using an emotion engine as a personalized suggestion means and making food suggestions based on the emotions. This enables food providers to efficiently manage and provide surplus food and make personalized suggestions based on the user's emotions.

[1648] Key word definitions

[1649] "Food providers" refers to companies and individuals that provide food at restaurants, supermarkets, markets, etc.

[1650] "Surplus food" refers to food that was expected to be sold or consumed but was not used within the specified time frame.

[1651] "Detailed information" refers to specific information about the item, such as the food's name, expiration date, quantity, and category.

[1652] "Database" refers to a system for storing and managing surplus food inventory information and user request information.

[1653] "General users" refer to consumers who are eligible to receive surplus food.

[1654] "Search tools" refers to a function that allows general users to search for information about surplus food based on certain criteria.

[1655] "Request method" refers to the operations or functions that general users use to request the provision of surplus food selected by them.

[1656] "Inventory update means" refers to a function for updating surplus food inventory information to the latest state after a request is sent.

[1657] "Delivery information" refers to information about the logistics of surplus food until it is delivered.

[1658] "Pick-up point" refers to a designated location for the public to pick up surplus food.

[1659] "Notification means" refers to the function for communicating delivery information and pickup point information to general users.

[1660] An "emotion engine" refers to a system for analyzing user emotions.

[1661] "Personalized suggestion means" refers to a function that uses an emotion engine to suggest food based on the user's emotions.

[1662] A "generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence model that generates specific results based on user-entered data.

[1663] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[1664] This invention combines a system that allows food providers to input detailed information about surplus food and allows general users to search and request that information with an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions. The system consists of the following main components:

[1665] Food registration for food providers

[1666] The server provides a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food. For example, information such as the food name, expiration date, quantity, and category is entered and saved in a database. This ensures that the data on the surplus food provided is accurately registered in the system. This data entry is done via a web browser or smartphone application.

[1667] Matching surplus food demand

[1668] Ordinary users log in to the system using a smartphone application or web interface and search for surplus food. After entering search criteria (e.g., category, expiration date, etc.), the server searches the database and displays a list of surplus food that matches the criteria. The user selects the food they need from the list and submits a request. The server receives the request, checks inventory information, updates the inventory, and saves the request information in the database.

[1669] Coordinating delivery and receiving

[1670] The food provider confirms the request information and prepares for delivery. The server saves the delivery information and pickup point information in a database and notifies the user. The user can then pick up the food at the designated pickup point. Notifications are usually sent via email or in-app notifications.

[1671] Additional features of the Emotion Engine

[1672] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and makes personalized food suggestions based on those emotions. The server analyzes the emotion data entered by the user using a generative AI model. Based on the analysis results, personalized suggestions are made. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have the effect of reducing stress. The server can also analyze the user's emotion data and adjust the priority of requests based on the results. For example, a request from a user who is in a very difficult situation can be given a higher priority.

[1673] Specific examples

[1674] Donating surplus bread and using the emotion engine

[1675] 1. The user (food provider) enters the details of 30 surplus loaves of bread with a shelf life of two days into the system and stores it in the database.

[1676] 2. A general user searches for "excess bread" in the system, selects 10 pieces from the list, and submits a request. The server receives the request, checks the inventory, reduces the inventory by 10 pieces, and saves the request information.

[1677] 3. The food provider confirms the request information and prepares delivery to the specified pickup point. The server saves the delivery information in the database and notifies the user.

[1678] 4. Public users will collect their bread at designated pick-up points.

[1679] 5. The user logs in again to the system, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. If the user is found to be feeling stressed, the emotion engine will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect to the user.

[1680] Examples of prompt statements

[1681] "In one word, describe how you've been feeling lately. Write down what you're feeling right now."

[1682] Hardware / Software Used

[1683] Server: Use cloud services such as AWS or Google Cloud.

[1684] Database: Manage food information and request information using MySQL, PostgreSQL, etc.

[1685] Sentiment engine: Use sentiment analysis services such as IBM Watson and Microsoft Azure Cognitive Services.

[1686] Smartphone application: Develop as an application for iOS or Android.

[1687] In this way, the present invention will realize a high level of food waste reduction and social support by streamlining the management and provision of surplus food by food providers and enabling personalized suggestions based on user emotions.

[1688] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1689] System program processing flow

[1690] Details of each processing step

[1691] Step 1:

[1692] The server provides an interface for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food. Food providers input detailed information such as the food's name, expiration date, quantity, and category. This input data is received by the server and stored in a database. Input: Food name, expiration date, quantity, category. Output: Registered surplus food data.

[1693] Step 2:

[1694] A general user logs in to the system using a terminal and opens the food search screen. The general user enters search criteria such as category and expiration date, and presses the search button. The server searches the database and retrieves a list of surplus food that matches the search criteria. Input: Search criteria (category, expiration date, etc.). Output: List of matching surplus food.

[1695] Step 3:

[1696] A general user selects the food item they need from the search results, enters the requested quantity, and presses the request button. The server receives the request information and checks the stock information in the database. If there is sufficient stock, the server reduces the stock and saves the request information. Input: Requested food item and requested quantity. Output: Updated stock information and saved request information.

[1697] Step 4:

[1698] The food provider uses the terminal to check the request information. The server provides the food provider with the request information and corresponding inventory information. The food provider prepares for delivery. The server saves the delivery information and pickup point information in a database and notifies the general user. Input: Request information. Output: Delivery information and pickup point notification.

[1699] Step 5:

[1700] The general user picks up the food at the designated pickup point. At this time, the server performs a receipt confirmation process for the general user and stores the receipt information in the database. Input: Receipt confirmation by the general user. Output: Stored receipt information.

[1701] Step 6:

[1702] A regular user logs in to the system again, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions. The user enters text that expresses their recent emotions, and the server sends that text to the generative AI model. The generative AI model performs emotion analysis and sends the results back to the server. Input: User's emotion text. Output: Analyzed emotion data.

[1703] Step 7:

[1704] The server's emotion engine makes food recommendations suitable for the user based on the analyzed emotion data. For example, for a user who is feeling stressed, it will suggest foods that have a stress-reducing effect. This recommendation information is notified to the general user. Input: Analyzed emotion data. Output: Notification of food recommendations based on emotion.

[1705] Examples of prompt statements

[1706] "In one word, describe how you've been feeling lately. Write down what you're feeling right now."

[1707] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the robot 414. In the robot 414, the control unit 46A causes the speaker 240 and the control target 443 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 238 acquires voice indicating a user input regarding the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits voice data indicating the user input acquired by the microphone 238 to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the voice data.

[1708] The data generation model 58 is a so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). An example of the data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (Internet Search<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> ), Gemini (Internet search <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">) and other generation AIs. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. A prompt including an instruction is input to the data generation model 58, and inference data such as voice data indicating voice, text data indicating text, and image data indicating an image is also input. The data generation model 58 performs inference on the input inference data in accordance with the instruction indicated by the prompt, and outputs the inference result in a data format such as voice data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.

[1709] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the specific processing is performed by the data processing device 12, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific processing may be performed by the robot 414.

[1710] The emotion identification model 59 as an emotion engine may determine the user's emotion according to a specific mapping. Specifically, the emotion identification model 59 may determine the user's emotion according to an emotion map (see FIG. 9), which is a specific mapping. Similarly, the emotion identification model 59 may determine the robot's emotion, and the identification processing unit 290 may perform identification processing using the robot's emotion.

[1711] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an emotion map 400 on which multiple emotions are mapped. In the emotion map 400, emotions are arranged in concentric circles radiating from the center. Emotions closer to the center of the concentric circles are more primitive. Emotions representing states and actions arising from a state of mind are arranged on the outer edges of the concentric circles. The concept of emotion includes both affect and mental states. Emotions generally generated from reactions occurring in the brain are arranged on the left side of the concentric circles. Emotions generally induced by situational judgment are arranged on the right side of the concentric circles. Emotions generally generated from reactions occurring in the brain and induced by situational judgment are arranged on the upper and lower sides of the concentric circles. Furthermore, the emotion of "pleasure" is arranged on the upper side of the concentric circles, and the emotion of "discomfort" is arranged on the lower side. In this way, in the emotion map 400, multiple emotions are mapped based on the structure by which emotions are generated, and emotions that tend to occur simultaneously are mapped close to each other.

[1712] These emotions are distributed in the 3 o'clock direction on emotion map 400, and typically fluctuate between relief and anxiety. In the right half of emotion map 400, situational awareness dominates over internal sensations, resulting in a sense of calm.

[1713] The inside of emotion map 400 represents what is going on in the mind, and the outside of emotion map 400 represents behavior, so the further you go outside emotion map 400, the more visible the emotions become (the more they are expressed in behavior).

[1714] Human emotions are based on various balances, such as posture and blood sugar levels. When these balances deviate from the ideal, a state of discomfort is indicated, and when they approach the ideal, a state of pleasure is indicated. Emotions can also be created for robots, automobiles, and motorcycles, based on various balances, such as posture and remaining battery life. When these balances deviate from the ideal, a state of discomfort is indicated, and when they approach the ideal, a state of pleasure is indicated. An emotion map can be generated, for example, based on Dr. Mitsuyoshi's emotion map (Research on Voice Emotion Recognition and Emotional Brain Physiological Signal Analysis Systems, Tokushima University, Doctoral Dissertation: https: / / ci.nii.ac.jp / naid / 500000375379). The left half of the emotion map lists emotions belonging to the "reaction" domain, where sensation is dominant. The right half of the emotion map lists emotions belonging to the "situation" domain, where situational awareness is dominant.

[1715] The emotion map defines two emotions that promote learning. One is a negative emotion on the situation side, around the middle of "repentance" or "reflection." In other words, this occurs when the robot experiences negative emotions such as "I never want to feel this way again" or "I don't want to be scolded again." The other is a positive emotion on the response side, around "desire." In other words, this occurs when the robot experiences positive feelings such as "I want more" or "I want to know more."

[1716] The emotion identification model 59 inputs user input into a pre-trained neural network, obtains emotion values ​​indicating each emotion shown in the emotion map 400, and determines the user's emotion. This neural network is pre-trained based on multiple pieces of training data that are combinations of user input and emotion values ​​indicating each emotion shown in the emotion map 400. Furthermore, this neural network is trained so that emotions that are located close to each other have similar values, as in the emotion map 900 shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 10 shows an example in which multiple emotions, "relieved," "calm," and "reassuring," have similar emotion values.

[1717] The system according to the present disclosure has been described above mainly with respect to the functions of the data processing device 12, but the system according to the present disclosure is not necessarily implemented on a server. The system according to the present disclosure may be implemented as a general information processing system. The present disclosure may be implemented, for example, as a software program running on a personal computer or an application running on a smartphone, etc. The method according to the present disclosure may be provided to users in the form of SaaS (Software as a Service).

[1718] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the specific processing is performed by one computer 22, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific processing may be distributed and performed by a plurality of computers including the computer 22. For example, the data generation model 58 may be provided in an external device of the data processing device 12, and data may be generated in the external device in accordance with input data.

[1719] In the above embodiment, an example in which the specific processing program 56 is stored in the storage 32 has been described, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the specific processing program 56 may be stored in a portable, computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. The specific processing program 56 stored in the non-transitory storage medium is installed in the computer 22 of the data processing device 12. The processor 28 executes the specific processing in accordance with the specific processing program 56.

[1720] Alternatively, the specific processing program 56 may be stored in a storage device such as a server connected to the data processing device 12 via the network 54, and the specific processing program 56 may be downloaded and installed on the computer 22 in response to a request from the data processing device 12.

[1721] It is not necessary to store all of the specific processing program 56 in a storage device such as a server connected to the data processing device 12 via the network 54, or to store all of the specific processing program 56 in the storage 32; only a portion of the specific processing program 56 may be stored.

[1722] The hardware resource for executing a specific process can be any of the following processors: An example of a processor is a CPU, which is a general-purpose processor that functions as a hardware resource for executing a specific process by executing software, i.e., a program. Another example of a processor is a dedicated electrical circuit, such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), a PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), which is a processor with a circuit configuration designed specifically for executing a specific process. Each processor has built-in or connected memory, and each processor uses the memory to execute the specific process.

[1723] The hardware resource that executes the specific processing may be configured with one of these various processors, or may be configured with a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (for example, a combination of multiple FPGAs, or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). Also, the hardware resource that executes the specific processing may be a single processor.

[1724] As an example of a system configured with a single processor, first, one processor is configured by combining one or more CPUs and software, and this processor functions as a hardware resource that executes a specific process. Second, there is a system that uses a processor that realizes the functions of an entire system including multiple hardware resources that execute a specific process on a single IC chip, as typified by SoC (System-on-a-chip). In this way, a specific process is realized using one or more of the above-mentioned various processors as hardware resources.

[1725] Furthermore, the hardware structure of these various processors can be, more specifically, an electric circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor devices. The specific processing described above is merely an example. Therefore, it goes without saying that unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the processing order may be rearranged, without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[1726] The above-described description and illustrations are a detailed explanation of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure and are merely an example of the technology of the present disclosure. For example, the above description of the configuration, functions, actions, and effects is an explanation of an example of the configuration, functions, actions, and effects of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure. Therefore, it goes without saying that unnecessary parts may be deleted, new elements may be added, or replacements may be made to the above-described description and illustrations within the scope of the gist of the technology of the present disclosure. Furthermore, to avoid confusion and facilitate understanding of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure, the above-described description and illustrations omit explanations of common technical knowledge that do not require particular explanation to enable the implementation of the technology of the present disclosure.

[1727] All publications, patent applications, and technical standards mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent application, or technical standard was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

[1728] The following is further disclosed regarding the above embodiment.

[1729] (Claim 1)

[1730] a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food;

[1731] a means for storing surplus food inventory information in a database;

[1732] A means for the public to search for and submit requests for surplus food;

[1733] a means of updating food inventory and storing request information;

[1734] A means of storing and informing the user of delivery and pick-up point information;

[1735] A system including:

[1736] (Claim 2)

[1737] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising: means for accepting input from a food provider based on the detailed information of the surplus food.

[1738] (Claim 3)

[1739] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising an authentication means for a food provider to log in.

[1740] "Example 1"

[1741] (Claim 1)

[1742] a means for food providers to input details of their surplus food;

[1743] a means for storing food inventory information in a database;

[1744] A means for the public to search for and submit requests for surplus food;

[1745] a means of updating food inventory and storing request information;

[1746] A means for storing and communicating delivery and pick-up point information to the user;

[1747] A system including:

[1748] (Claim 2)

[1749] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising: means for accepting input from a food provider based on the detailed information of the surplus food.

[1750] (Claim 3)

[1751] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising an authentication means for a food provider to log in.

[1752] "Application Example 1"

[1753] (Claim 1)

[1754] a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food;

[1755] a means for storing surplus food inventory information in a database;

[1756] A means for the public to search for and submit requests for surplus food;

[1757] a means of updating food inventory and storing request information;

[1758] A means of storing and informing the user of delivery and pick-up point information;

[1759] a means for the user to input the quantity of food requested;

[1760] By collaborating with food delivery services, we can provide an efficient way to receive food and

[1761] A system including:

[1762] (Claim 2)

[1763] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising: means for accepting input from a food provider based on the detailed information of the surplus food.

[1764] (Claim 3)

[1765] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising an authentication means for a food provider to log in.

[1766] "Example 2: Combining Emotion Engines"

[1767] (Claim 1)

[1768] a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food;

[1769] a means for storing surplus food inventory information in a database;

[1770] A means for the public to search for and submit requests for surplus food;

[1771] a means of updating food inventory and storing request information;

[1772] A means of storing and informing the user of delivery and pick-up point information;

[1773] an emotion recognition means for recognizing a user's emotion and providing personalized food suggestions;

[1774] A system including:

[1775] (Claim 2)

[1776] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising: means for accepting input from a food provider based on the detailed information of the surplus food.

[1777] (Claim 3)

[1778] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising an authentication means for a food provider to log in.

[1779] "Application example 2 when combining emotion engines"

[1780] Claims

[1781] (Claim 1)

[1782] a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food;

[1783] a means for storing surplus food inventory information in a database;

[1784] A means for the public to search for and submit requests for surplus food;

[1785] a means of updating food inventory and storing request information;

[1786] A means of storing and informing the user of delivery and pick-up point information;

[1787] A personalization suggestion means for analyzing a user's emotions using an emotion engine and making food suggestions based on the emotions;

[1788] A system including:

[1789] (Claim 2)

[1790] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising: means for accepting input from a food provider based on the detailed information of the surplus food.

[1791] (Claim 3)

[1792] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for analyzing the emotion data input by the user with a generative AI model and making food recommendations based on the results. [Explanation of symbols]

[1793] 10, 210, 310, 410 Data Processing Systems 12 Data Processing Device 14 Smart Devices 214 Smart Glasses 314 Headset-type terminal 414 Robot< / url:> < / url:> < / url:> < / url:>

Claims

1. a means for food providers to input detailed information about surplus food; a means for storing surplus food inventory information in a database; A means for the public to search for and submit requests for surplus food; a means of updating food inventory and storing request information; A means of storing and informing the user of delivery and pick-up point information; A system including:

2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising: means for receiving input from a food provider based on the detailed information of the surplus food.

3. The system of claim 1 , further comprising an authentication means for a food provider to log in.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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